Adobe unveils new Acrobat version

Targeting home PC users and the SOHO segment, Adobe Systems introduced Acrobat 7.0 software, a cumulation of desktop applications that provides capabilities beyond converting documents into the Portable Document Format (PDF). Now, workgroups can use Acrobat 7.0 and Adobe PDF to manage business activities such as assembling documents from multiple sources, creating intelligent forms, and more securely collaborating on projects inside and outside the firewall.

"Over time, PDF has evolved from a static format for publishing final documents to a flexible technology more widely and thoroughly leveraged by workgroups and enterprises," said Timothy Hickernell, VP, META Group, a provider of IT research, advisory services and strategic consulting. "As the format's evolution has taken place, the market for products that offer more than basic PDF creation has begun to flourish," he added. 

It also introduced Adobe Reader 7.0, the company's free, universal client software. Apart from delivering the ability to reliably view and print Adobe PDF files across various operating systems, hardware and mobile device platforms, the software offers more powerful capabilities as well. 

Adobe Reader users can participate in document reviews, have Yahoo! Search capabilities and can interact with 3D objects placed in PDF. The product is also the client for intelligent document services, enabling individuals to participate in business processes, interact with many types of specialized content more securely on- and off-line, and enforce security and control policies on PDF files. 

The Acrobat 7.0 family now offers enhanced integration with Adobe LiveCycle software, the company's product line for document services that connects people with business processes. The inclusion of Adobe LiveCycle Designer, the company's professional form design tool, with Acrobat 7.0 Professional provides users the ability to create XML and PDF forms that can be integrated into back-end systems. 

Also, Acrobat 7.0 Professional and Acrobat 7.0 Standard are tightly integrated with Adobe LiveCycle Policy Server. Acrobat 7.0 Professional is expected to be available for an estimated street price of Rs 24,000. Acrobat 7.0 Standard is expected to be available for an estimated street price of Rs 16,000. 

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