Access has announced a version 1.1 update for the Virus TI, which features an array of enhancements and new functionality and will be available during February, 2006. Besides improved stability, there are two new browser functions ("Sort By Category" and "Search by Name") plus a new "Remote Mode" to turn the Virus TI into a universal MIDI control surface.

VIRUSControl can now automatically build banks based on sound categories. Every Virus TI patch is stored with one or two categories. This information can now be used to easily search for specific sounds regardless of the patch name.

"Search by Name" allows you to enter a string of text and search for patches by name (including partial match) among all onboard sounds and in sound banks stored on your computer's hard drive. It is fast and can apparently search ten thousand patches in a couple of milliseconds.

The new "Remote Mode" turns the Virus TI into a fully programmable universal MIDI control surface with 32 knobs. Up to 32 preset scenes can be stored in the hardware, each storing up to 32 MIDI knob assignments and names. Remote Mode does not interfere with the sound engine and can operate as standalone hardware or in your sequencer with VirusControl. Access will provide a library of remote templates which can also be edited using VirusControl, and users can also create and share their own templates.

Access also announced three other software developments, expected before April of 2006.

1. VirusControl that is fully supported in MOTU's Digital Performer.
2. An RTAS version of VirusControl which will be fully compatible with Digidesign Protools.
3. A Universal Binary version of all Virus TI software components to be compatible with the new Intel Macs.