#hp printer

I've had an HP Officejet 6962 for years. For the most part, it's been fine, beyond the usual printer issues. (Which honestly isn't saying much, but I digress.)

Went to print out some forms I need to fill out and, lo and behold, I can't use the brand new ink I just bought.

Why?

These are non-HP ink cartridges, but I've gotten them in the past and they've been fine. It's literally been months, maybe a year, since we needed to print anything.

HOWEVER

HP recently pushed out a firmware update to make it IMPOSSIBLE to use your printer without their brand of cartridges.

For record, these cartridges - a brand I've reliably used for years - cost like $35-$40 bucks.

HP's brand of the same cartridges cost $75 - $84, depending on if there's a sale or not.

So, that's fun. [/seething sarcasm]

Apparently, in non-US countries, HP has been fined for pulling shit like this.

I think to myself: "did they dox people who complain about their shit and put their printing behind a paywall or something?".

I'm naturally curious so I clicked the link and checked.

And it's not it.

Personally I think it's worse.

Now you can't even own the physical stuff.

Ther offer printers that cost 120-240 USD for rental. And it must be for 2 years at least or you have to pay a cancellation fee.

Here's how much it will cost monthly: