(Read the original announcement here.)

PDF 2.0, the long awaited (since 2008) version of the PDF standard, while still in review, is finally working its way into the marketplace, albeit slowly. As I have mentioned before, there are many companies that have developed technologies for interpreting PDF files. However, there are two primary OEM providers of that core technology used for DFEs (Digital Front Ends): Adobe APPE (Adobe PDF Print Engine) and Global Graphics Harlequin Host Renderer. Ultimately, most DFE hardware and software vendors take that core technology and implement in their front ends to drive the printers, presses, proofers, etc., that are used for rendering PDF files for production. Almost a year ago, we published an article on Adobe’s announcement of PDF Print Engine 5 and PDF 2.0 including many new features it brings to print production. We also published an article on Harlequin v12.0, which also introduced many new PDF 2.0 features.

You may recall that after that announcement, Global Graphics addressed specific issues targeting production inkjet printing anomalies with their Advanced Inkjet Screens. Since that time, Global Graphics has looked at other new market requirements. Recognizing that, since labels and packaging are seeing significant growth, they will need solutions to further facilitate their production processes. These new features are part of the new Harlequin v12.1 release.