Ulead has followed hot on the heels of rival Roxio's MyDVD 8 with the launch of its entry-level DVD authoring suite, DVD Moviefactory 5.

Targeted at consumers, the latest version boasts more ease-of-use features and support for rival high-density disc formats, HD-DVD and Blu-Ray.

Typical features in version 5 include the ability to capture and edit video from any source, including DV or HDV camcorders, digital TV broadcasts or VCRs.

A new Multi-trim Editor comes with Accucut scrubbing controls for zooming into a frame-by-frame mode for cutting out unwanted footage.

A much-welcomed feature is Ad-Zapper, which scans any TV programmes you have recorded and automatically deletes the ads before burning them to DVD.

'With support for both HD disc formats, DVD Moviefactory 5 offers users the best video experience no matter which standard is chosen,' said Mark Wurdemann, European Marketing Manager.

'DVD Moviefactory 5 allows users to burn discs with professional-style menus that will play back their HD video content in its full original resolution.'

Other key features include new authoring tools for creating animated menus, slideshows and a Quick Drop utility for backing up for photos or video to blank discs quickly.

The software is shipping now for £29.99, or £20 for existing users who want to upgrade.