Monotype Imaging Holdings, a provider of typefaces, technology and expertise for creative applications and consumer devices, has engaged with several of Japan’s top typeface foundries and distributors to enhance Monotype’s portfolio of high-quality Japanese fonts.

Typefaces from Iwata, Jiyu Kobo, Motoya, Ricoh and Type Project comprise the latest additions, bringing the total to more than 500 Japanese fonts that can be licensed from Monotype. The latest additions — several of which are available for the first time outside of Japan — are licensed through Monotype’s direct sales channels and through the company’s Fonts.com and Linotype.com websites.

In addition to licenses for Web fonts and traditional desktop fonts, licensing options are available for mobile applications, e-publications and Web-enabled services, as well as for OEMs [original equipment manufacturers] and developers of consumer devices.
 
Monotype’s Japanese collection comprises a wide range of styles, including classic Mincho and Gothic designs featuring several weights as well as brush and decorative styles. Typefaces have been designed for optimal legibility and readability for the both screen and print environments, and designs are able to complement Korean, Chinese and other language fonts that Monotype offers, says John Seguin, executive vice president of Monotype. In addition, certain faces have been designated by Monotype’s foundry partners as “universal design” fonts, which offer simplified strokes and other refinements that help to maximize on-screen clarity.