HP customers are expressing their dissatisfaction as the company persists in using firmware updates to dissuade and block the use of non-HP-branded ink cartridges in HP printers. Despite facing class-action lawsuits and negative publicity regarding the implementation of “dynamic security,” HP is continuing to utilize this feature.
The purpose of dynamic security is to verify the authenticity of ink cartridges used in HP printers and to prevent the usage of cartridges that are not approved by HP.
Currently, there is no solution to this issue. If you have updated your newer HP printer with the latest firmware, there is a possibility that it will no longer accept ink from third-party suppliers. Unfortunately, it is impossible to determine which printers have received the update. If you already own an HP printer, there is nothing you can do about this issue. However, if you are looking to purchase a new printer, you can make an informed decision based on whether you are comfortable buying a printer that only accepts its own branded cartridges or not.
Printer users have always faced the challenge of expensive cartridge costs. As a result, many users opt for third-party cartridges, which are more affordable. The volume of cartridge sales for a printer company varies based on the size of the company, its market share, and its sales strategy. Companies specializing in inkjet printers tend to have higher cartridge sales than those producing laser printers. Additionally, companies with a larger market share tend to have higher cartridge sales compared to more niche companies.
The use of third-party cartridges has affected printer manufacturers, who rely on cartridge sales for their profits. To address this issue, many companies have introduced new technologies to their printers, which restrict their operation to only their own branded cartridges.
HP’s decision is viewed as a knee-jerk reaction to sustain revenue amidst decreasing net printing revenue. This move may cause some users to switch to other printer brands that provide greater flexibility in terms of ink options.