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Flash enables users to include video and application files in PDF documents which can then be read, and played, in the forthcoming Reader 9 application.

Acrobat 9 also includes the ability to combine various content into a single document using the new PDF Portfolios feature. PDF Portfolios enable users to assemble multiple media types into a single, compressed PDF file that can be customised with several layouts and specific branding.

Users also get access to Acrobat.com,

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a suite of online services for sharing and collaborating on PDFs.

Acrobat 9 comes in three flavours - Standard, Pro (included with the new Creative Suite 3 collections) and Pro Extended,the only one capable of turning PowerPoint presentations into multimedia PDF files. For a full comparison of features see Adobe's comparison chart.

Acrobat 9 Pro Extended is available for £619.00, and registered users of qualifying earlier versions of Acrobat can upgrade for £205.00. Acrobat 9 Pro is available for £425.00; users of qualifying earlier versions of Acrobat for £145.00. Acrobat 9 Standard is available for £265; upgrades £85. All prices are exclusive of VAT. For details see adobe.com/uk/acrobat.

Adobe Reader 9 is expected to be available in early July 2008.