Audio software developer Audiofile Engineering has released FiRe 1.3 ($9.99), a professional field recording app for the Apple iPhone and iPod touch. Version 1.3 incorporates myriad new features, including iZotope-powered effects and a Podcast Export option that lets you publish Podcasts directly from the iPhone.

FiRe is purportedly the first iPhone application to offer iZotope signal processing and the ability to publish a finished Podcast directly from the handheld device. What makes FiRe an excellent Podcast recorder is its ability to tag recordings with location data and its ability to insert and name markers, according to the manufacturer. When creating a Podcast with FiRe, markers are converted to chapters for easy navigation.

Other notable features include improved Overdub mode, the ability to change the playback speed while retaining the pitch; the ability to compress files in AAC, Apple Lossless, FLAC, and Ogg Vorbis formats; enhanced search and metadata functionality; a brand-new toolbar for fast access to recordings; and an updated SoundCloud API.

The FiRe app is available now from the Apple App Store.