Hybrid Software has announced the 11.5 release of its PACKZ PDF editor for label and packaging prepress. This release marks a milestone in the company’s commitment to customer-driven development.

“What makes this release especially significant is the input from our user community,” says Pascal Wybo, product manager at Hybrid Software. “Our DNA is to listen to customers and act on their input.  For the 11.5 release, we have actively engaged with PACKZ users to gather suggestions, feature requests, and usability insights. This collaborative effort has shaped the development of PACKZ 11.5, making it a reflection of the needs of our industry.”

New Halftone Detection Tool: Precision Screening Control with Harlequin RIP Technology

PACKZ 11.5 introduces the Halftone Detection Tool, an extension to PACKZ Max that features integrated Harlequin RIP technology for unmatched control over screening parameters directly within the PACKZ editor. This high-precision quality control tool is engineered to support print professionals during the prepress phase with fast and accurate measurements of critical screening parameters.

The Halftone Detection Tool evaluates screen frequency and screen angles directly from the PACKZ Max RIP output preview and any 1-bit TIFF file opened in PACKZ. Beyond basic screening metrics, the tool delivers in-depth analysis of dot gain compensation, minimum and maximum dot sizes, and plate linearization, ensuring optimal plate and print quality with consistent results across production environments.

Extended CF2 Format Now Supports 3D Variants

In collaboration with technology partners Arden Software, Engview, and TreeDiM, Hybrid Software continues to extend the CF2 standard with the introduction of 3D variants in PACKZ 11.5 and partner products. This powerful new capability allows multiple fold angle configurations—such as fully closed, lid open, or folded flat—to be embedded within a single CF2 file.

These 3D variants are instantly rendered in Hybrid Software’s iC3D ray-tracing software and are fully compatible with structural design systems from companies that support the Extended CF2 format and 3D variants. This enhancement significantly streamlines 3D packaging workflows, enabling faster design iteration and improved communication across the production chain.

True-to-Life Spot Color Rendering Powered by ColorLogic

Based on ColorLogic technology, PACKZ now renders spot colors on screen with exceptional accuracy using their spectral or colorimetric data. The improvements are most notable for spot color tints and blends of spot and process colors, maintaining a consistent hue.

Spot color specifications are retrieved from CxF/X-4 spectral data in a PDF file or from selected color books. PACKZ also supports substrate simulation by selecting Absolute Colorimetric in the display Preferences.

Laneplanner Enhancements for Digital Label Production

Packzimizer Laneplanner introduces new features that enhance production accuracy and efficiency for roll-fed digital printed labels. The Laneplanner now supports maximum roll length specifications in version 11.5, ensuring optimized layouts stay within physical press or finishing equipment limits. Additionally, Laneplanner respects the exact label roll quantities required by customers, allowing converters to fulfill orders precisely without overproduction or waste.

These improvements further streamline digital label production, aligning layout planning with real-world press constraints and customer delivery expectations.