Audacity has released Version 4.0, its largest feature update in years, introducing a colorful dark mode and expanded non-destructive editing tools. The popular free and open-source audio editor received a visual overhaul with vibrant accent colors and colored audio clips, though users can opt for the classic interface during setup. New editing workflows allow clips to overlap and trim back to reveal covered audio, while multiple clips can be selected and trimmed simultaneously.

A new envelope tool enables precise gain control with real-time waveform display, and a one-click splitting tool mirrors capabilities found in Adobe Premiere and Logic Pro. Users can now edit down to the sample level for fine micro-adjustments. Each track includes a meter to identify clipping tracks.

The removal of sync-lock has been controversial, but new keyboard shortcuts replicate that functionality. Despite these DAW-like features, Audacity remains free, making professional tools accessible. Additional changes include more robust plugin support.

This release marks a significant leap forward for the software traditionally seen as basic.