AirPrint is one of the major new IOS 4.2. We can now print documents or photos directly from an iPhone, iPod touch or iPad, without even needing a computer. For the moment, a printer compatible AirPrint native is necessary : they are still scarce, but we expect that the number of compatible printers will grow in the future. For now, only the HP compatible ePrint AirPrint work with: the list is available on the Apple site.
We tested AirPrint with an HP printer, the Photosmart Wireless eAIO B110 series is compatible and therefore AirPrint ePrint. This all-in-one printer and scanner includes a WiFi chip that connects the printer to its terminal iOS without a computer. The latter has been intentionally left out for this test that focuses on what is possible with only a printer and wireless iOS terminals.
Hardware
The B110 series Photosmart Wireless Printer is a fairly standard, a black block comprising a flatbed scanner on top and a paper tray that doubles as a tray. The printer is constructed of shiny black plastic that is not unpleasant to the eye, but is also very messy. A monitor in color on the front side to control all printer features.
HP provides the printer with a carrying bag and a pouch for the AC adapter: you can transport it fairly easily. The printer is fully autonomous: once connected, the Photosmart Wireless B110 can be used as independent copier or printer standalone from an SD or MMC, or iOS terminal.
HP has included in its product a WiFi chip compatible with standard G and N.The connection is via the screen color and tactile arrows arranged on either side. We also strongly regrets that the screen is not touch-typing the WEP key or WPA network is thus very time consuming. It is even more tedious as you have to repeat the procedure several times: each termination of the printer, WiFi settings are ignored by the printer and it will repeat the whole procedure is restarted. Hopefully this is a bug and that the HP will pay a future update, the printer can indeed be updated via the Internet.
This connection to the Internet via WiFi network has several advantages. The main course is printing on a local network - we will return at greater length later - but that's not all. HP has a special email address that sends a file to print remotely. In addition, HP has integrated "applications" that are actually simplified access to some Internet content. This will print sudoku puzzles, sheet music or even brought coloring books and illustrations Dreamworks and Disney, or News from Yahoo's site.
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