Hybrid Software Helix has officially launched Mako Core 9, the latest iteration of its flagship software development kit (SDK) designed for print original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) and independent software vendors (ISVs). The release marks a significant milestone in document processing technology, introducing major performance enhancements specifically engineered to tackle the most demanding PDF workflows.
As modern print environments grapple with increasingly complex data, Mako Core 9 targets two of the most significant processing bottlenecks in the industry: rasterization and output generation. The update introduces the Apex GPU-native renderer, which utilizes modern graphics processing unit power to accelerate rasterization by up to 30 times compared to traditional CPU-based systems. Complementing this is the new Apex PDF Output technology, which leverages an optimized, multithreaded CPU architecture to write complex PDF files up to 10 times faster in typical production scenarios.
According to the company, these architectural advancements are designed to drastically reduce overall processing times, thereby increasing server efficiency and press throughput. This is particularly vital for high-volume and variable data printing (VDP) environments, where speed and reliability are critical to maintaining margins and meeting tight turnaround requirements.
“Performance matters wherever complex documents have to be processed quickly and reliably, particularly in high-volume and variable data environments,” said David Stevenson, product manager for Mako Core. “With Mako Core 9, we’ve focused on removing significant processing bottlenecks while retaining the flexibility and development environment our customers already know.”
A key advantage of the Mako Core 9 architecture is its versatility. While the Apex renderer utilizes the power of modern GPUs, the new Apex PDF Output operates on standard CPU architectures, ensuring that developers can optimize their hardware resources depending on the specific task at hand.
Beyond raw speed, Mako Core continues to serve as a comprehensive, single-source SDK for print and document applications across multiple page description languages. Its proprietary intelligent Document Object Model (iDOM) provides developers with granular access to critical document elements, including fonts, images, vector graphics, layers, metadata, and color profiles. This allows for deep inspection, editing, conversion, and optimization within a unified development framework.
The platform maintains full support for PDF 2.0 and various ISO PDF standards, including PDF/X for professional print production. Reflecting its commitment to industry standards, both the CPU and GPU renderers have received official Ghent Workgroup accreditation.
The technological leap provided by Mako Core with Apex has already earned industry recognition, securing a 2026 PRINTING United Alliance Pinnacle Award for Innovation. Hybrid Software Helix is scheduled to provide live demonstrations of Mako Core 9 at the upcoming PRINTING United Expo, held September 23-25 in Las Vegas, at booth C1371. With these advancements, the company aims to solidify its position as a central player in the digital transformation of professional printing workflows.
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