Apple today released Aperture 2.1, which introduces an open plug-in architecture that makes it easy for photographers to use specialized third party imaging software right from within Aperture. Available today as a free software update, Aperture 2.1 includes the Apple-developed plug-in, Dodge & Burn, which adds brush-based tools for dodge (lighten), burn (darken), contrast, saturation, sharpen and blur. Over the coming months, third party software developers will deliver image editing plug-ins for localized editing, filters and effects, noise analysis and reduction, fisheye lens correction and more.

Apple has released an updated version of its Aperture image processing software. The move from version 2.0 to 2.1 increases the product's depth with the addition of new architecture that allows third-party plug-ins. Apple includes a dodge and burn plug-in with the latest version and is working with plug-in writers to bring industry favorites to Aperture.

Adobe has announced the launch of an online photo storage and manipulation tool. The public beta of Photoshop Express marks the arrival on the internet of the probably the world's most recognizable image processing brand name. Photoshop Express allows users to non-destructively edit and enhance their images, which can be pulled and pushed to and from popular websites such as Facebook. Updated: Adobe has issued a statement about some of the application's fine print that was causing consternation.

With its T range of digital cameras, Sony has looked to do away with the four-way controller (and most other buttons), and rely instead on a touch-screen interface. The T300 is the latest model, offering 10.1 MP and a 5 X zoom in a distinctly un-camera-like format. We investigate whether you can take digital photos with just four external buttons and if the results are worth it.

DPReview is saddened to hear that Mike Fitzgerald, one of our Sony Talk Forum's most respected contributors has passed away. Mike joined our forums back in 2001 and authored nearly 10,000 posts offering advice on everything from imaging workflow to lenses as well as comment and support for new members joining the forum. He was one of the people on the DPReview forums that have helped make the discussion boards feel like communities and we know a lot of contributors will remember him with fondness. All the staff at DPReview would like to offer their condolences to Mike's loved ones.