Audacity 4, free and open-source audio editor, arrives with a revamped UI

It’s been a long time coming. Audacity, the ubiquitous open-source audio editor now owned by Muse Group, reaches version 4 with a reworked UI and enhanced usability. Here’s a look at what’s new and a first run. And there is one fork to consider, too.

Audacity 4: a glimpse of a new, more modern UI for the free audio editor

Audacity always had some appealing features, not least of which being free and open source. But a glimpse inside the design work being done on Audacity 4 suggests it could become something else: a slick, efficient wave editor that just happens to be free. This UI breakdown will be of interest to anyone pondering UI/UX in creative tools.

Peter Kirn - October 6, 2025

Audacity now has free AI-powered sound tools from Intel

The free audio editor now gets a suite of free AI tools from Intel, some competing with expensive paid subscription services. That covers useful stuff like noise suppression and transcriptions and music separation, plus more experimental generative features.

Peter Kirn - February 5, 2024

Audacity makers clarify data usage – and there’s not reason to dump the editor yet

Peter Kirn - July 5, 2021

Audacity finds home along open-source MuseScore in new acquisition by growing Muse Group

Peter Kirn - May 4, 2021