HP Printing Innovation - Web based Printing

In June of 2009, HP announced a new form of printing technology: web-based printing. The machine it will be first launched with is the HP Photosmart Premium, and the new name for this technology is TouchSmart Web. This will allow users to connect directly to websites through the printer, not the PC, and print desired content on demand. Similar to internet capable devices like an iPhone, the printer comes pre-loaded with various web applications.

According to HP, they will be able to download new applications as they are developed and released from the HP Apps Studio. The "Touch" part of the name refers to the 4.33" touch screen LCD screen that will be the user's gateway to the web from the printer. This new technology will also allow users to connect directly to their Snapfish account and print their photos on demand. HP has partnered will several other companies to make this happen.

Some examples of applications already in place are movie tickets, recipes, and directions. HP also hopes to offer users the chance to create their own apps by the end of 2009. In addition to the neat web functionality, the printer functions as an all-in-one (AIO) and offers users the ability to scan, fax and copy. This printer will come with a variety of wired and wireless options to connect to your PC or Mac. According to HP, these machines should be available sometime in the fall of 2009 and priced around $400. Read the full release here