Abstract: In an image/video encoding and decoding system employing an artifact evaluator a method and/or apparatus to process video blocks comprising a decoder operable to synthesize an un-filtered reconstructed video block or frame and an artifact filter operable to receive the un-filtered reconstructed video block or frame, which generates a filtered reconstructed video block or frame. A memory buffer operable to store either the filtered reconstructed video block or frame or the un-filtered reconstructed video block or frame, and an artifact evaluator operable to update the memory buffer after evaluating and determining which of the filtered video block or frame, or the un-filtered video block or frame yields better image/video quality.

Abstract: A speech converter in a speech processing system modifies various aspects of input speech. The speech converter receives a formants signal representing an input speech signal. The speech converter may also receive a formant scaling command or a user selection of one of multiple control signals, each specifying a manner of modifying one or more of the received signals (i.e., formants, voicing, pitch, gain). The speech converter modifies at least one of the formants, voicing, pitch, and/or gain signals as specified by the selected voice font.

Abstract: Automatic weight adjustment (AWA) to derive an optimal color correction matrix may address unbalanced color reproduction performance among different illuminations and/or unbalanced color reproduction performance for specific memory colors. AWA may emphasize particular colors and equalize color performance. AWA may be implemented in an automatic process with optional manual operation.

Abstract: The invention relates to methods and devices for mitigating and/or minimizing effects of hand jitter or shaking during an auto-focusing process of an image-capturing device. In order to more accurately focus a lens for capturing a digital image, the lens is moved between a minimum and maximum position (along an axis) while capturing sample image frames using a focus window at various lens positions. Improved auto-focusing is achieved by dynamically adjusting the relative position of the focus window for each image frame to cover substantially the same image portion of the target image. By adjusting the focus window for each image frame to cover substantially the same image portion of the target image, variations from shaking may be minimized, thereby improving auto-focusing.