NEW ARCHITECTURE FOR CANON MULTIFUNCTION DEVICES WILL ALLOW FULL CUSTOMIZATION TO SPECIFIC CUSTOMER REQUIREMENTS
Canon "MEAP" to Dramatically Transform Utility and Value of Multifunction Devices
CHICAGO, May 6, 2003 - Canon U.S.A. Inc., a subsidiary of Canon Inc. (NYSE:CAJ), and a leader in networked imaging solutions, today kicked off the start of the Canon Digital Solutions Forum 2003 by introducing a significant advancement in the architecture of its multifunction devices (MFPs). Known as Canon "Multifunctional Embedded Application Platform" (MEAP), the technology advancement is expected to dramatically transform the level of utility and value derived from multifunction devices through extensive customization capabilities that can be developed specific to individual customer requirements.
"Canon MEAP is a significant step forward in the advancement of our multifunction devices, and for office technology in general," said Tod Pike, senior vice president, Sales and Marketing, Canon U.S.A. Imaging Systems Group. "By considerably expanding Canon's ability to address specific workflow requirements through customization, MEAP removes "one size fits all" associations with MFP functionality and tailors the device to the individual customer, beginning a new era for our continued growth while widening our competitive differentiation."
Canon MEAP is an open, JAVA-based development platform that uses the Open Services Gateway Initiative (OSGi) framework, allowing the creation of multiple, customized software applications that run inside the device without the need for additional external hardware. With Canon MEAP, customers will be empowered to tailor their multifunction system to their specific workflow processes, and will have considerable flexibility and choice with respect to how they integrate products into their enterprise. MEAP enables Canon, third parties, and customers to develop unique capabilities on Canon devices, thereby creating applications that highly leverage customer investments in both information technology and office equipment.
To the end user, Canon MEAP will reside as a functional option on the interface of a Canon MFP device, similar to the copy, mailbox, and send functions that are currently available. Once selected, a customized interface will appear that has been developed specifically to the document workflow processes or other needs designated by the customer. The MEAP user interface can be designated as the default function so that when an end user approaches the device, the customized MEAP application color display is first seen on the console. Up to nine MEAP applications can be installed simultaneously on any given MEAP compatible device.
Among the first Canon devices that will offer the MEAP architecture are the Company's industry leading imageRUNNER Series, including the new imageRUNNER 5020/6020 Series announced at the Digital Solutions Forum event that will be available in June 2003. Canon also intends to release additional MEAP compatible imageRUNNER systems throughout 2003.
In support of launching Canon MEAP, Canon U.S.A. Imaging Systems Group has established the Canon Custom Solutions Center. Through the Custom Solutions Center, Canon will support third party application development on the MEAP platform and via other Canon Software Developer Kits (SDKs), while also conducting MEAP application development on a contract basis for specific customers. Canon's Custom Solution Center will begin supporting developer and customer application development activities in July of 2003.
In addition to the support provided developers via the Custom Solutions Center, Canon's Alliance Marketing Program will also extend co-marketing, promotional, and distribution resources to grow existing and future customer business.
The first commercially available application that will be offered on the MEAP platform will be eCopy ShareScan OP, a leading document distribution software solution. Available during the third quarter of 2003, the eCopy ShareScan OP application will deliver the same robust functionality as today's eCopy ShareScan software with new, advanced administrative capabilities.
Canon MEAP, the imageRUNNER 5020/6020 Series, and eCopy ShareScan OP are being demonstrated at the Canon Digital Solutions Forum 2003, an annual showcase of the Company's technological leadership and strategic vision. This year's event focuses on the theme of "Real Business, Real Solutions." -- an evolution of the Company's "Workflow That Works" message. New and emerging imaging technologies that are designed to easily integrate and improve workflow in today's digital enterprise will be on display throughout a 100,000+ square foot exhibit at the McCormick Place Convention Center in Chicago, May 6 - 7.
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