Eastman Kodak to acquire Applied Science Fiction’s technologies

Applied Science Fiction (ASF) was formed in 1995 and has developed successful software solutions for automatic image correction and restauration such as Digital ROC, Digital SHO and Digital GEM. The company has been particularly successful with its award-winning Digital ICE software that automatically removes dust and scratches from scanned images. ASF is also the inventor of the digital dry film processing system, Digital PIC, which rapidly developes standard color negative films without chemical mixing or plumbing and simultaneously creates digital image files that can be used to print photographs and write images on CD.

According to a press release, Kodak plans to combine its expertise in imaging kiosks with ASF’s Digital PIC technology to design Picture Maker kiosks that function much like automatic picture machines, available everywhere and providing processing and printing for either film or digital camera users. Since these machines will accept film or digital camera input as well as prints, consumers will be able to preview and select, edit and print their pictures in a matter of minutes. Kodak will integrate Applied Science Fiction’s technologies and personnel into its Consumer Imaging business. Specific details about product plans are currently under development and will be disclosed at a later date.