OpSec Security and SAKATA INX Corporation, a provider of performance products, have announced the launch of a new company called SAKATA Brand Solutions (SBS) Co. Ltd.

At the recent Global Currency Forum (GCF) in Oman, industry players showcased new security threads on themes ranging from butterflies, chameleons, meadows, and ocean to Venus.

In Pakistan, interest in holography is gaining momentum, fuelled by advances in digital technology, expanding internet accessibility, and a growing recognition of its potential for innovation across various sectors. The article explores a few recent developments.

In response to the alarming rise in counterfeiting incidents in India and the pressing need to bridge the gap between academic research and the anticounterfeiting industry, the International Hologram Manufacturers Association (IHMA) joined hands with Reinforce Intellectual Property Association (RIPA) for an awareness program.

As sustainability takes centre stage in boardroom discussions, industry stakeholders are implementing innovative eco-friendly initiatives. This article highlights some of the key developments shaping the path towards a greener future.

Crane NXT has signed a definitive agreement with De La Rue to acquire its authentication business for £300 million, subject to customary adjustments.

As part of its ongoing strategy to broaden its scope and realign its identity to better serve evolving markets and new technology frontiers, the International Hologram Manufacturers Association (IHMA) has initiated a renaming process. This marks a pivotal moment for the association as it continues to evolve alongside the holography and optical security industries.

Morphotonics is a leader in large-area nanoimprinting, a technology that allows for the mass production of nano-lenses. The company is experiencing a growth spurt at the moment, and, as this article shows, while the techniques used by Morphotonics will be familiar to developers of optical security devices, the applications may not.

API Foilmakers, an Aldus Company, has officially announced the launch of a new company—API Transfer Technologies (ATT).

As part of Malaysia’s pilot initiative to implement standardised national number plates, the Ministry of Transport (MOT) and the Road Transport Department (Jabatan Pengangkutan Jalan – JPJ) have officially launched the JPJePlate system. The rollout begins with electric vehicles (EVs), and the system is expected to expand to other vehicle categories.

VividQ has recently raised an additional $7.5 million in Series A funding, bringing the company’s total funding to over $30 million. The funding round was led by Foresight Group LLP and included new investors such as GameTech Ventures, NY-based Ruttenberg Gordon Investments (RGI), and existing investors.

Sweden-based biotech company Phase Holographic Imaging (PHI AB) will now be trading on the US OTCQB Venture Market (OTCQB: PHIXF), in addition to its primary listing on the Swedish Spotlight market. The OTCQB is the mid-tier over-the-counter (OTC) equity market, which lists primarily early- stage and developing companies in the US and international markets.

The International Hologram Manufacturers Association (IHMA) patent newsletter provides crucial insights to its members. In the July 2024 edition of the patent newsletter, over 90 patents were featured, highlighting the latest advancements in the evolving field of holography, which spans security, display technologies, and scientific tools. The articles explain the patent landscape.

Following the new (EU) Regulation 2023/2055, which took effect on 17 October 2023, bioglitter might become the only sparkling powder available in Europe. The regulation restricts the sale of products containing intentionally added microplastics, including non-biodegradable plastic glitter; however, it allows exceptions for biodegradable, soluble, or natural glitter. This opens the door for eco-friendly alternatives like cellulose-based or mineralbased glitters and holographic biodegradable glitters.

Morgan Adhesives Company (Mactac®), a Lintec subsidiary, has introduced its new label material, rainbow holographic polypropylene, as part of its precise program.

Researchers at Bilkent University in Turkey have advanced the field of nanotechnology through the application of holographic techniques to fabricate nanostructures deep inside silicon wafers.

XRD Nano (XRD), a technology company based in the UK, is driving breakthrough innovations in the world of UV replication, focusing on nano and microstructures. Its solutions are being recognised globally, particularly in holographic packaging, transfer films, brand protection labels, shrink sleeves, security documents, and functional films. This article explores the key innovations from XRD that are transforming these industries.

The emergence of AI has marked the dawn of a new chapter in human history, enabling the generation of text, images, and videos from simple text prompts without requiring prior artistic or technical skills. Recent research shows that holographic technologies can also benefit from advances in AI.

Reconnaissance, publishers of Holography News™ and organisers of the High Security Printing™ (HSP) conferences, has announced that registration is now open for the upcoming HSP Asia event, scheduled for 2-4 December 2024, in Bangkok, Thailand. Reconnaissance will announce the program details soon.

In recent years, quantum physics has revolutionised various fields, from computing to cryptography. Now, holography is entering the quantum world, introducing the concept of quantum holograms that not only allow secure communication but could also improve medical imaging.