A recent Hewlett-Packard firmware update blocks printers if they use ink cartridges from cheap manufacturers.
Hewlett-Packard (HP), has sparked outrage after the release of a recent firmware update that prevents customers from using cheap non-branded ink cartridges. Printers were automatically updated and under the new terms will not work if they do not have approved ink cartridges.
The manufacturer discourages customers from using cartridges other than those with HP chips, which are often more expensive. If the customer tries to use a non-HP ink cartridge, the printer will refuse to print.
Until now HP printers used to show a warning when you put a "third party" ink cartridge in it, but now the printers just refuse to print at all.
HP's classic justification is that it issued the update to reduce the risk of malware attacks, Saying that "third-party cartridges that use non-HP chips or circuits may pose risks to hardware performance, print quality, and security." It also said it used regular updates to improve its services, such as introducing alerts for some customers that let them know when their ink is running low.
The company also blocks the use of competing containers to "maintain the integrity of its printing systems and protect its intellectual property."
Outraged customers have flooded social media with complaints, saying they felt "cheated" by the update. HP ink cartridges can cost more than double the price of third-party ink cartridges.
It's not the first time HP pisses off its customers preventing the use of other ink cartridges. He's done it again and has paid a hefty fine in compensation to clients in America, Australia and across Europe.
But is not the only printer company either that has such a treatment towards its customers. There is a lot of money in the ink market.
