HP disables customers’ printers if they use ink cartridges from cheaper rivals

https://www.telegraph.co.uk/money/consumer-affairs/hp-printers-computers-ink-cartridges-rivals/ ^

[algore]

A well-known computer brand has disabled the printers of customers using ink cartridges from rival companies. Hewlett-Packard, or HP, has sparked fury after issuing a recent “firmware” update which blocks customers from using cheaper, non-HP ink cartridges in its printers.

Customers’ devices were remotely updated in line with new terms which mean their printers will not work unless they are fitted with approved ink cartridges. It prevents customers from using any cartridges other than those fitted with an HP chip, which are often more expensive. If the customer tries to use a non-HP ink cartridge, the printer will refuse to print.

HP printers used to display a warning when a “third-party” ink cartridge was inserted, but now printers will simply refuse to print altogether. The printer company said it issued the update to reduce the risk of malware attacks, saying “third-party cartridges that use non-HP chips or circuitry can pose risks to the hardware performance, print quality, and security.”

It also said it used regular updates to improve its services, such as introducing alerts for some customers telling them when their ink is running low.

The consumer group Which? said manufacturers were “actively blocking customers from exerting their right to choose the cheapest ink and therefore get a better deal”.

According to its website, all HP standard printers will block cartridges using a non-HP chip or circuitry. The spokesman added some third-party cartridges reuse the HP chip or electronic circuitry and those that do will function as normal.

Some customers can choose to disable HP’s cartridge-blocking feature in the printer’s settings, HP said, but it depends on the printer model. Others will be stuck with a printer that only works if they commit to spending more on ink cartridges approved by HP.

[faucetman]

Epson printer with giant ink reservoirs refillable with generic inks

[Fresh Wind]

LOL!