Datacolor today unveiled the SpyderExpress, positioned as the most budget-friendly entry in its monitor-calibration tool family.

Notably, the SpyderExpress is built to evolve. Starting October 2025, users will be able to expand its feature set, adding Device Preview, soft-proofing, monitor matching, video-oriented tools, and enhanced OLED or mini-LED display support, through software upgrades that do not require new hardware. Datacolor terms this upgrade path the Spyder-ECO ecosystem.

The device promises professional-level screen profiling in under two minutes via a easy three-step workflow. It supports modern display hardware including Apple’s latest mini-LED XDR displays like the MacBook Pro M4, and the user can calibrate up to three monitors per workstation. From digital content through print, the SpyderExpress adapts to the user’s medium right out of the box.

Context: Where SpyderExpress Fits in Datacolor’s Lineup

Datacolor’s existing calibration tools— Spyder and SpyderPro (read our test of the SpyderX) already support modern display technologies like OLED, mini-LED, and Apple Liquid Retina XDR, with the Pro version targeting video-centric workflows and advanced calibration control such as StudioMatch, soft-proofing, and Device Preview (still beta). The SpyderExpress delivers a streamlined, entry-level alternative, offering core calibration features immediately, with the potential to match upsides of the more advanced models over time via software.

Getting Colors Right with the Datacolor LightColor Meter

Why This Matters to Creative Professionals

Colour-accurate monitoring is essential in digital production—from image editing to motion work and print proofing. The SpyderExpress simplifies that process in a package both fast and affordable. The ability to upgrade functionality through software, rather than purchasing entirely new hardware, lowers cost barriers and encourages long-term adoption. For teams deploying multiple monitors, the ability to calibrate three at once adds practical efficiency.

Test-First Caution: Always Validate Before Production Use

As with any calibration tool, especially new software-driven models, we recommend rigorous in-studio or in-post testing before integrating SpyderExpress analytics into deliverables or final outputs.

„For Those Who Dare“

The post Datacolor’s SpyderExpress: Colour Calibration on a Budget, Now with Growth Path Options first appeared on DIGITAL PRODUCTION and was written by Bela Beier.

Xencelabs has introduced the Pen Display 24+, which, at USD 1,899, becomes the industry’s first pen display with Calman Ready hardware-level colour calibration built directly into the device. The calibration is stored on the device itself, not in the operating system, aiming to deliver consistent, accurate colour across devices and workflows. In collaboration with Portrait Displays, this solution targets colour-critical fields such as photography, VFX, animation, and industrial design.

A calibration workflow uses Calman Professional software with compatible hardware (e.g., the Portrait Displays C6 HDR5000). This avoids complex OS-level adjustments and supports calibration to multiple colour spaces including Adobe RGB, DCI‑P3, Rec. 709, Rec. 2020, along with sRGB. The display also supports Pantone‑validated palettes and SkinTone certification.

Precision, Finish, and Ergonomic Enhancements

The Pen Display 24+ features a 23.8‑inch 4K (3840×2160) panel capable of showing over 1.07 billion colours with 99 % Adobe RGB, 99 % sRGB, and 93 % DCI‑P3 coverage. The Super AG Etching glass offers pen-to-paper friction and glare reduction, enhancing drawing feel and studio usability.

Included are two battery‑free pens (3‑button + eraser v2 and thin + eraser v2), both offering 8,192 pressure levels and interchangeable nibs. A Quick Keys Remote with OLED display supports up to 44 app‑specific shortcuts, and Virtual Tablet Mode allows multi‑monitor control as a cohesive canvas. The display is fanless and includes a tilt stand with optional multi‑axis adjustments.

Production Reliability and Availability

The Pen Display 24+ is shipping now, priced at USD 1,899. The box includes the display, tilt stand, pens, Quick Keys remote, pen case, dongle, nibs, glove, cleaning cloth, cabling, and security slot options.

Summary

Xencelabs is targeting studio professionals with the Pen Display 24+, offering built-in Calman hardware calibration, premium colour fidelity, responsive drawing hardware, and ergonomic tools—all at the display level. The features suggest a strong emphasis on dependable, consistent colour workflows. Users should still test calibration in their specific production pipelines before relying on results in client-facing work.

The post Xencelabs Pen Display 24+ Debuts with On-Board Calman Colour Calibration first appeared on DIGITAL PRODUCTION and was written by Bela Beier.

Adobe has announced a new feature for Photoshop: Live Co-Editing. Currently in beta (Fill in this survey if you want to partake), this functionality allows multiple users to edit the same cloud-based document simultaneously, with changes appearing in real time. It’s like a digital jam session, but without the questionable guitar solos.

Real-Time Collaboration

Live Co-Editing enables teams to work together on a single Photoshop document stored in the cloud. As each user makes edits, others see the changes instantly, streamlining the collaborative process and reducing the need for constant file exchanges. This feature is particularly beneficial for creative teams aiming to enhance efficiency and cohesion in their workflows.

How It Works

To utilize Live Co-Editing, users save their Photoshop documents as cloud documents. They can then invite others to collaborate by sharing access. Once collaborators join, any edits made are visible in real time, allowing for seamless integration of ideas and adjustments. It’s collaboration made easy—no telepathy required.

Availability and Access

Live Co-Editing is available in the beta version of Photoshop. Users interested in testing this feature can access it through Adobe’s beta program. As with any beta release, it’s advisable to use caution and not rely solely on this feature for critical projects until it has been fully tested and officially released. Remember, even the best chefs taste their dishes before serving.

Implications for Creative Workflows

By enabling real-time co-editing, Photoshop aims to meet the evolving needs of creative professionals who require efficient and effective tools for teamwork. However, users should evaluate the feature’s performance and stability within their specific workflows before full integration. After all, it’s best to test the waters before diving in headfirst. For more information and to participate in the beta, visit Adobe’s official Beta Community page.

The post Photoshop’s New Live Co-Editing: Real-Time Collaboration Without the Coffee Runs first appeared on DIGITAL PRODUCTION and was written by Bela Beier.