Users of HP's Instant Ink subscription service are in for a nasty shock next month when their printer charges are set to rise substantially. In an email sent to subscribers last week, they were told that HP's ``Free Ink for Life'' plan would no longer be free. Previously, the HP Instant Ink service worked by allowing subscribers to print up to 15 pages per month for free, and ink suppliers automatically notified when ink levels were low so new cartridges could be delivered. . Now subscribers will be forced to pay a monthly fee based on the number of pages they plan to print each month, with no free tier available. The new proposals could make HP printer owners question whether they really own the device. With the new subscription, failure to pay a monthly ink bill means the printer won't work, no matter how much ink is left in the cartridge.
A license to print money
HP has not formally commented on the changes to its Instant Ink subscription, but the email sent to customers indicates that the new pricing plan will take effect on December 26. However, earlier this month, the company announced the launch of HP+, a new service to meet home and office printing needs. “We believe that HP+ is the future of printing, it is a fundamental change in the printing experience. We've brought together the best printing innovation in a complete solution for consumers and small businesses: best-in-class hardware, the largest supplies subscription service that now includes toner, and the best printing app available now. the cloud,” explained Tuan Tran, president of Imaging, Printing and Solutions at HP. “We designed HP+ for those who value printing most, so we can give them an enhanced experience.” Subscription services are commonplace these days, but HP Instant Ink customers can say they've delivered on the "Free Ink for Life" promise. On the other hand, HP may well claim that it reserves the right to change the terms of its subscription service at any time. Via Slash Gear