Late Wednesday, software developer Quark released version 8.1.2 of its QuarkXPress design application. The 659 megabyte update, which can be downloaded here, adds the following fixes and changes:

- Improves PDF output capabilities and introduces features.

- Introduces a ‘Native Transparency’ mode for creating PDFs which can offer designers faster and more flexible PDF output support and provide greater control over their PDF workflow process.

- Renovates spell checking, adds the ability to paste text without formatting, and improves productivity with Scale functionality.

- Fine-tunes Usability and Item Styles.

- Can help prevent errors by reporting faux font styles such as bold or italic.

- Readies QuarkXPress for Snow Leopard and Windows 7 compatibility.

QuarkXPress 8.1 requires Mac OS X 10.4 later to install and run and retails for US$799.00 for the full version.