Artificial intelligence is making its way into prepress operations at Hybrid Software. The Belgian software publisher, which specializes in software for the graphic arts and packaging industries, is launching PackZ 12, a new version of its native PDF editor designed for packaging manufacturers and prepress shops.
An AI assistant built into the software
The main development is the introduction of a multilingual assistant powered by artificial intelligence. This assistant provides context-specific assistance based on the tools being used and supports operators in their day-to-day tasks. This AI tool can also generate action lists, information panels, print markers, and even script code to accelerate the automation of certain repetitive operations.
"PackZ 12 marks the beginning of a new era in which artificial intelligence is now an integral part of the modern prepress workflow," says Pascal Wybo, product manager for PackZ. "We view AI as a way to break down the barriers between users and software, making advanced features easier to discover and master, and simplifying the automation of routine tasks."
Amazon Transparency Serialization Supported
PackZ version 12 now also supports Amazon Transparency codes, which are used for product authentication and to combat counterfeiting. The barcode and variable data printing features are integrated with Artflow, a software solution dedicated to layout management, and the publisher?s Cloudflow production workflow platform.
The solution covers code retrieval, mockup validation, barcode generation, and barcode production. Hybrid Software also notes that this architecture supports the GS1 Sunrise 2027 initiatives, which promote the adoption of 2D barcodes that contain more data.
And production-related improvements
Finally, this version includes several enhancements designed for production: Packzimizer optimizes the layout of stacked labels to minimize material waste; the PackZ Max module improves per-object quality control of halftones on transparent graphics; and compatibility with Hell Gravure JobTickets enhances data exchange between prepress and engraving operations.
