The next version of RISC OS graphics package ArtWorks will be able to import PDF documents, developer Martin Wuerthner said this week. ArtWorks 2.8 is expected to be released in May but a pre-release build could be made available in time for the Wakefield 2008 show this month. In the new version a PDF document can be dropped onto the ArtWorks icon and the software will import the file complete with multiple pages, CMYK colours, spot colours, graduated fills, transparency, clipping paths and CMYK images. Although software already exists for RISC OS to convert PDF documents into native drawfiles, these programs cannot cope with documents with the aforementioned elements, according to Martin.
Martin added: "Since the vast majority of graphics programs on other platforms can export PDF files, being able to import PDFs finally allows you to import graphics from virtually every other application into ArtWorks while retaining advanced features such as CMYK colours, transparency and clipping.
"The full release of ArtWorks 2.8 is expected in May but a pre-release version may be available as soon as at this month's Wakefield show. Upgrade prices and ordering details will be announced in time."
ArtWorks gained the ability to output PDF documents in version 2.5.
No to ports
Martin also said there was no truth in rumours that he was planning to port his ArtWorks software to the Microsoft Windows platform. It was claimed Martin was considering porting his applications to larger platforms for obvious commercial reasons.
However, Martin, who has been doing programming work for graphics software firm Xara, said: "I have never mentioned anything like this to anyone. I am, of course, involved in Windows graphics software simply because I am working part time for Xara Ltd. and I am behind a few of the new features of their brand new Xtreme 4.0 release."
Martin will be demonstrating his software at the Wakefield 2008 show.
• Meanwhile, publisher R-Comp is said to be beavering away to finish two brand new RISC OS applications in time for the Wakefield event aside from the Image Animator and Touch Type packages it took over this month. Pushed for details, R-Comp's Andrew Rawnsley told drobe.co.uk: "I don't like to pre-announce products until they're done - I don't want to disappoint anyone."
VirtualAcorn boss and RISCOS Ltd director Aaron Timbrell also let slip this week that he is involved in two product releases set to be revealed at Wakefield 2008.
Links
MW Software website