Stop planned obsolescence attacks the American giant HP, accused of blocking the use of alternative ink cartridges and limiting their reuse. The association hopes for a preliminary investigation to put an end to these controversial practices.
HP ink cartridges at the center of the debate
The Stop Planned Obsolescence (HOP) association has filed a complaint against the manufacturer HP with the Paris prosecutor's office. The reason: “ planned obsolescence of ink cartridges » et « hindering the reconditioning and restoration of cartridge functionality outside the approved network “. In other words, HOP accuses HP of deploying strategies to prevent the use of unofficial or remanufactured cartridges in its printers.
According to the association, these practices rely on electronic chips and software updates that block alternative cartridges, or even HP cartridges refilled by third parties. “ These blockages are not clearly announced to consumers », deplores Flavie Vonderscher, advocacy officer for the association. She adds that some printers become unusable, even for their scanner function, once the cartridges are empty.
Beyond the technical blockages, HOP criticizes the evolution of the ink cartridge market, where filling capacities have reportedly decreased while prices skyrocket. The association cites costs reaching up to 7,500 euros per liter for certain modern cartridges.
A global phenomenon
PTo justify its complaint, HOP relies on consumer testimonies and online forums, as well as a court decision in Italy condemning HP for similar practices. It also highlights the environmental impact of disposable cartridges and calls for greater use of reconditioned cartridges, considered more durable.
« HP strives for cartridges to be used only once. It is a strategy that is harmful to the environment and dishonest to consumers “, says Ms. Vonderscher.
This is not the first time that HOP has taken on tech giants. The association had already filed similar complaints against Epson in 2017 and Apple in 2023. These actions are part of a broader fight against planned obsolescence, a phenomenon now sanctioned by French law.
HOP has also launched a petition entitled “ We want printers without planned obsolescence “. This requires equipment that is more durable, repairable and compatible with alternative cartridges.
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