Agfa says the agreement also grants it full patent protection covering the technology, a software algorithm for enhancing the readability of text on cell phones, PDAs, laptops, e-books, and other devices.
According to Afga, subpixel rendering technology is designed to improve the quality and readability of text on color LCD screens. The technology takes advantage of LCD screen geometry, allowing developers to manipulate parts of pixels, rather than whole pixels, to enhance character shapes and character spacing, leading to improved readability of displayed text. The company says the technology, which takes into consideration characteristics of the human visual system, is also intended to ensure a consistent, smooth look throughout the weight of any font.
"Thanks to Microsoft's IP policy, we're now in the position to offer the most effective subpixel rendering technology available. Our partnership with Microsoft truly benefits consumer device manufacturers, who may now license patent-protected technology that will allow their products to perform at a new level," said Steve Kuhlman, vice president and general manager of Agfa Monotype's Display Imaging group
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