Lexmark Explains the Firmware Update June 10, 2011 13:01 by Rob Williams
Lexmark have published a Facebook message in an attempt to defend their recent Firmware update which has caused such controversy.
What Lexmark say about their firmware update
Related to the new Lexmark 100 ink cartridges, this firmware update produced a significant backlash from customers.
Lexmark has claimed the update only impacted "unauthorized third-party 'cloned' cartridges", and that refilling/recycling/remanufacturing of Lexmark originals not part of the Return program were still able to function properly.
You can read the full Lexmark statement here.
My thoughts on the Lexmark statement
Just to clarify, these are my thoughts and not Stinkyink's...
This is the first statement we have seen from Lexmark attempting to soothe over consumer anger, and justify their firmware, and the first reaction has to be "you took an awfully long time to come".
It raises some interesting points regarding the terms and conditions customers agree to when purchasing and installing a printer, and the impact it has on their future printing choices which I doubt many consumers consider when they continually click Next until installation is complete.
I am a Lexmark printer owner...
...and this statement has simply exacerbated my annoyance instead of calming me down.
The money that was spent on this printer should be for the technology within the printer that benefits me.
Manufacturers should realise the razor-blade pricing scheme merely compounds the effectiveness of the third-party market. Placing high running costs on printers that were pittance to purchase is not going to dissuade people from attempting third party cartridges, and are the public relations disasters attempting to enforce manufacturer original cartridges really worth it?.
Ultimately... dear Lexmark...
...To answer mine and many other consumers backlash by saying "you agreed to it" feels pretty similar to Lexmark coming to my door and just slapping me in the face.
Much like the introduction of the Lexmark Return Program felt like an attempt to limit the circulation of empty cartridges in the aftermarket, and not an environmental scheme, this announcement reeks of a poor attempt at profiteering and not being honest with its customers.
I don't know about you, but my next printer is not going to be a Lexmark.
Were you hit by the Lexmark update? Or wish to comment?
If you were hit by the update, or wish to add to any of my comments then please do comment below, always happy for thoughts and opinions and I welcome anyone who disagrees with my view!
Or opinion-less? Make sure to check out their announcement and see what you think.
3 Responses to “Lexmark Explains the Firmware Update”
July 23, 2011 13:58
... my first ever Lexmark, bought because I could, when strapped for cash, use alternative cartridges.
My first, my last.
July 23, 2011 14:20
I have posted to their Facebook wall today:
"
I am sure you are, Lexmark.
Not best at serving the public though, who paid a good price for your machines.
I used to buy Lexmark cartridges when I could afford it, alternatives when I could not. As a disabled person, my income is not enough at present to spend the high sums demanded for 'original' cartridges.
I now have a non-functioning S605. Want to buy it back from me?
This was the first Lexmark I ever bought, and, unless things change with regard to this debacle, it will certainly be my last. This is true of a number of my aquaintances who are now in the same boat as me.
My printer is part of my therapeutic environment; I use it to scan and print artworks which helps my condition.
You have scuppered this with your 'corporate' greed.
You have saddened me no end.
Yours sincerely
Roger D Wright
PS If you want proof of my dependency due to illness, I shall be happy to get my therapeutic nurse to supply it. "
August 10, 2011 10:09
Notably, Lexmark was just named by Corporate Responsibility Magazine as one of the top 100 Best Corporate Citizens.