Building an inkjet printer from scratch is a massive undertaking that spans multiple engineering disciplines. While we have already solved the major foundational challenges to ensure Openprinter is a viable, high-quality product, the devil is always in the details.

We are working tirelessly on the finishing touches before we launch our Crowd Supply campaign at some point in the next few months. Here is a look at where we stand and what we are refining right now.

Project Progress

The current prototype is performing wonderfully on all core functions:

• Printing: We are successfully printing in both black and full color. Because we can freely adjust the print dimensions, practically any custom size is possible!
• Media Handling: The printer seamlessly manages both standard sheets and continuous paper rolls.
• Cutting: The integrated cutter precisely slices paper rolls to your exact desired length.

Our next technical steps include…

• Hardware: We are currently optimizing the ink-drying system, refining the printhead/cartridge nozzle cleaning cycles, streamlining the paper insertion process, and boosting overall print speeds.
• Software: Our focus is on integrating robust Wi-Fi and RJ45 (Ethernet) connectivity and implementing advanced dithering algorithms to maximize print quality.
• Industrialization: We are actively adapting our hardware for DFM (Design for Manufacturing), optimizing our BOM (Bill of Materials) to reduce costs, and finalizing our network of manufacturing partners.

A Note on Pricing

We know this is your most frequently asked question! Final pricing depends on a moving puzzle of production volumes, BoM costs, industrialization expenses, regulatory certifications, and final engineering developments. Because we want to give you an accurate, fair number, we cannot announce the final price until these factors are fully locked in. The official pricing will be revealed the moment the crowdfunding campaign goes live.

Sneak Peek: Prototype in Action

To tease you just a little bit, here is a quick, raw clip of the prototype in action. It has a little message for you!

Vote for us!

We are thrilled to announce that Openprinter has been nominated for the French Design Awards in two categories: Production and Teaching & Learning!

There is also a special "Audience Award" given to the project with the most community votes, and we would love your support. It’s easy, and it only takes a few seconds:

1. Click here to vote and look for the "Vote for our project" ("Voter pour ce projet") button
2. Enter your email address
3. Confirm your vote using the verification code sent to your email.

And that’s it! Don’t worry—your email is secure, and you won’t be spammed. Feel free to share this update with anyone who loves open-source hardware or who might want to help us win the Audience Award!

Thank you so much for your incredible support. We are pouring our hearts into making Openprinter the most robust, versatile, and beautiful machine possible. The very first Openprinter is coming. Stay tuned—more fresh news is on the way!

— The Openprinter Team