Microsoft (Quote, Chart) is sprucing up its imaging with a little help from Canon and Nikon.
The move aims to provide Windows XP and Longhorn users with greater control over the digital image editing process.
The enhancement to the current and upcoming versions of its Windows operating system will give users more control while working with RAW image files, which take information directly from the camera, the company said.
While JPEGs are processed inside the camera, a RAW file is processed on a PC. The exposure and color can be controlled on the PC after the image has been captured. However, each new camera model introduces changes to RAW image files; therefore, digital imaging applications must also be updated to support these changes. Microsoft is working with its partners to help solve this problem.
"The explosion in popularity of digital photography on Windows continues to progress and evolve as consumers discover the quality benefits of digital camera RAW," Amir Majidimehr, corporate vice president of Windows Digital Media at Microsoft, said in a statement. "By working with industry leaders to extend support for RAW in Windows, we are removing the obstacles for consumer use of RAW and enabling a seamless platform for the next era of digital imaging innovation."
Redmond is working with digital imaging firms Adobe Systems, Canon, Fuji Photo Fil
