Wedoany.com Report on Mar 17th, German machine vision software developer MVTec Software GmbH announced the launch of MERLIC version 26.03 on March 26, 2026. This update aims to enhance the integration and ease of use of the machine vision software, helping users apply machine vision technology more efficiently through new features.
Ulf Schulmeyer, Product Manager for MVTec MERLIC, stated: "MVTec has continuously invested in developing PLC interfaces and process stability features in recent years, positioning MERLIC as a machine vision framework rather than just software. The new version continues this direction, for example, with frontend observability functionality supporting the creation of audit trails." This feature ensures that system changes are traceable and systematically recorded.
MERLIC 26.03 includes several technical improvements, such as optimized deep learning-based code reading, and an adjusted version management system to align with MVTec's standard nomenclature, resulting in the new version number MERLIC 26.03. Licensing and pricing models have been simplified, offering two versions: "MERLIC" and "MERLIC Professional." The Professional version includes all features, such as deep learning tools and custom tool integration. Furthermore, users can connect any number of cameras based on technical feasibility, enhancing system flexibility and scalability.
The new version introduces a unified naming convention in the "Year.Month" format, with more simplified and flexible licensing models. The MERLIC package includes rule-based features and two deep learning tools, while the Professional version covers all deep learning functionalities and supports custom tool integration. MERLIC 26.03 also provides optional add-ons and removes camera quantity limits, allowing unlimited connections to increase flexibility.
Core new features in MERLIC 26.03 include frontend observability, enabling users to track operational changes for seamless traceability and supporting the creation of audit trails. Open interfaces allow the transfer of operations to existing systems, improving transparency and meeting compliance requirements. Improvements to the write permission component enhance usability and security, displaying change status and offering new approval methods, combined with user management for enhanced control.
The new version also includes a Beckhoff® TwinCAT® ADS plugin, enabling data exchange and device control via the ADS protocol, facilitating efficient interaction with TwinCAT systems. The conceptual tool "Tile Images" supports image stitching, aiding in data organization and process handling, currently in early development and welcoming user feedback. Tool improvements involve Deep OCR adopting a more compact model and advanced parameter control, as well as the QR code tool supporting the latest international quality standards such as ISO/IEC 15415:2024 and ISO/IEC 29158:2025, enhancing detection accuracy.
