Key Takeaways:
- A recent HP firmware update has caused legitimate HP-branded toner cartridges to stop working in some LaserJet models.
- Users reported that their printers displayed Error Code 11 and flashing toner lights.
- HP has admitted to a firmware problem affecting some LaserJet 200 Series devices and is working on a solution.
HP’s latest firmware update has unexpectedly disabled even genuine HP-branded toner in certain LaserJet models, leaving users frustrated and unable to print. This issue has reignited concerns about the company’s restrictive firmware policies and their impact on customers.
On March 4, HP released firmware update version 20250209 for its LaserJet MFP M232-M237 models. The update included regulatory compliance changes, general enhancements, and bug fixes. Previous updates focused on improving print quality and cartridge rejection issues. However, the release notes made no mention of any changes affecting toner usage.
However, several users on HP’s support forum reported sudden issues right after installing the latest update. They encountered Error Code 11 and flashing toner lights when trying to print. Basic troubleshooting steps, such as cleaning the contacts and reinstalling the toner, failed to resolve the problem.
“We are aware of a firmware issue affecting a limited number of HP LaserJet 200 Series devices and our team is actively working on a solution. For assistance, affected customers can contact our support team at: https://support.hp.com,” an HP spokesperson said in a statement to The Register.
HP’s history of controversial firmware updates
Unfortunately, this isn’t the first time HP has released a faulty firmware update that disrupted its printers. In 2023, an update left several HP OfficeJet models unusable for weeks, with users reporting that their printers stopped working and displayed a blue screen of death with error code “83C0000B.” The issue affected customers across multiple countries, including the US, France, Australia, Germany, the Netherlands, New Zealand, and Poland.
In January 2024, HP was sued by a group of customers who claimed that HP doesn’t accept replacement ink cartridges made by any other manufacturer. The complaint alleges that users were forced to pay high prices for HP branded cartridges.
Last week, Japanese vendor Brother was accused of releasing a firmware update to block or degrade the laser printer functionality with third-party cartridges. However, the company denied these claims and mentioned that these updates are designed to improve security and functionality of printers.