Callas Software has released pdfToolbox 17, the latest version of its PDF automation platform, introducing a range of new features aimed at improving production workflows and automation in print environments.
The software is widely used by printers, online print platforms, and workflow integrators to analyse, correct, and process PDF files automatically. According to the company, the new release focuses on enhancing usability, performance, and flexibility in production settings, while addressing common challenges associated with handling complex or imperfect files.
“pdfToolbox is the backbone of many automated production systems,” said Dietrich von Seggern, CEO of Callas Software. “Our customers continuously push the limits of what can be achieved with automated PDF processing. With pdfToolbox 17, we focused on enabling those workflows to run faster, more reliably, and with greater flexibility.”
Among the updates is a new whitespace detection preflight check, which identifies available space within PDF documents. In print-and-cut workflows, this can be used to automatically position marks or identifiers based on available space and defined rules.
The software also introduces new capabilities for optimising variable data printing (VDP) files by separating static and dynamic content, enabling faster processing in high-volume output environments.
For textile, wallpaper, décor, and industrial print applications, pdfToolbox 17 adds functionality to generate bleed for repeating patterns without disrupting the design structure, supporting continuous or large-format production workflows.
A new Imposition Wizard has also been added, allowing users to create step-and-repeat, fill-page, and booklet layouts with a live preview. These configurations can be saved and integrated into automated workflows, with further customisation available for more complex use cases.
David van Driessche, chief evangelist at Callas Software, said: “Sometimes the most valuable improvements are not the most spectacular ones. Production environments deal with imperfect files every day, and even small improvements can make a big difference. At the same time, we continue to make powerful functionality more approachable, for example, through the new Imposition Wizard.”
Additional updates in pdfToolbox 17 include enhanced handling of technical lines such as cutlines, improved PDF inspection tools, expanded JavaScript functionality for automation, and support for WebP image conversion.
The release also introduces new options for OEM partners, including the ability to export preflight profiles with XML sidecar files for pdfToolbox Portal, as well as new Docker images with REST API and queueing support.
PdfToolbox 17 is available immediately from callas software and its distribution partners.
