Nitro PDF Software has released version 2.0 of its popular free PDF editor/creator software, Nitro PDF Reader. Available in separate 32-bit and 64-bit builds, Nitro PDF Reader 2.0 is actually the first stable release of Nitro PDF Reader – previous 1.x versions were classed as beta.

Nitro PDF Reader 2.0, which can offers PDF conversion, creation and editing tools in addition to its basic viewing capabilities, is marketed by Nitro as “no strings attached” software because of its extended functionality and lack of registration nags or ad-supported components. Version 2.0 includes some notable performance improvements – particularly in the field of PDF creation – as well as a number of new features.

Nitro PDF Reader 2.0 includes a brand new PDF creation engine that is both quicker and more efficient, promising to produce PDFs up to four times quicker than in the previous release while reducing the final PDF by up to 50 per cent. It also claims it will draw and display PDF files more quickly thanks to an optimised rendering engine.

Version 2.0 also introduces proper browser integration for the first time, allowing you to preview PDF files directly within Internet Explorer, Firefox and Google Chrome. Other features, some of which were already present in earlier builds, include QuickSign technology for quickly importing and “stamping”  a scan of your signature on to PDFs, plus support for both XFA forms and OCG (Optional Content Group) Layers too.

Reporting on Nitro PDF Reader’s final release, Nitro CTO Chris Dahl said, “We’ve added new functionality, but what this release really represents is a quantum leap in performance, quality, and overall usability. We had no intention of shedding the beta tag until we were genuinely confident in the product.”

Dahl also commented on the importance of garnering feedback from the program’s installed user base in both testing and suggesting new features for the product. “Our biggest priority in the past twelve months has been establishing a real dialog with our user community,” he explained. “We’ve actively sought their feedback and opinions throughout the process, and it’s something we’ll always do. In the end, they know better than anyone how we can continue to improve.”

Nitro PDF Reader 2.0 is available as a free download for both 32-bit and 64-bit builds for PCs running Windows XP or later.