Yes, while enrolling in HP Instant Ink is a mandatory step to activate the full benefits of an HP+ printer during its initial setup, you can later opt out of the Instant Ink service. However, choosing to discontinue Instant Ink will also result in the deactivation of your HP+ benefits and features. Your HP+ printer will continue to function, but it will revert to standard printing capabilities without the exclusive advantages that come with HP+.
Understanding the HP+ and Instant Ink Relationship
HP+ is designed as a smart printing system that offers enhanced features, advanced connectivity, and an extended warranty. To unlock these benefits, HP's model requires a few key elements, one of which is a continuous internet connection and an active HP Instant Ink subscription upon setup. This initial enrollment is crucial for the HP+ service to be activated.
Once your HP+ printer is set up and Instant Ink is enrolled, you gain access to the full suite of HP+ features. However, HP provides the flexibility to manage your Instant Ink subscription according to your printing needs.
What Happens When You Opt Out of Instant Ink?
If you decide to cancel your Instant Ink subscription after initial setup, you are certainly able to do so. This action, however, directly impacts your HP+ benefits:
- Loss of HP+ Features: All the exclusive HP+ features, such as the extended warranty, advanced HP Smart App features (like Private Pickup and Print Anywhere), and potentially other premium services, will cease to function.
- Printer Functionality: Your HP+ printer will still operate as a standard printer. You can continue to print using traditional ink cartridges purchased from retailers.
- No Re-enrollment of HP+ Benefits: Once HP+ benefits are deactivated due to Instant Ink cancellation, they cannot typically be reactivated for that specific printer, even if you re-subscribe to Instant Ink later. HP+ is a one-time activation that requires an ongoing Instant Ink connection for its benefits to persist.
HP+ with vs. Without Instant Ink
To illustrate the difference, consider the following comparison:
| Feature/Benefit | HP+ Printer with Active Instant Ink | HP+ Printer (Instant Ink Cancelled) |
|---|---|---|
| HP+ Activation | Yes, fully active | Initial setup required enrollment |
| Instant Ink Service | Active, ink delivered | Not active, purchase own ink |
| Extended Warranty | Active | Deactivated |
| Advanced HP Smart App | Full features (e.g., Private Pickup, Print Anywhere) | Basic features only |
| Cloud Connectivity | Enhanced | Basic |
| Security Features | Enhanced | Standard |
| Printer Functionality | Full, smart system | Basic, standard printer |
| Ink Cost Model | Subscription-based | Traditional cartridge purchase |
Why This Requirement?
HP's strategy ties HP+ and Instant Ink closely together to provide a seamless, managed printing experience and ensure a steady supply of original HP ink. This model aims to offer convenience, cost savings on ink (for high-volume users), and a more proactive printer maintenance experience through connectivity. By linking the advanced features of HP+ to the Instant Ink service, HP encourages users to remain within their ecosystem.
Managing Your Instant Ink Subscription
Should you wish to opt out of HP Instant Ink, the process is typically straightforward through your HP Smart App or HP Instant Ink account online. Before canceling, it's advisable to understand the implications for your HP+ benefits and ensure you have alternative ink solutions ready for your printer.
While you have the freedom to manage your Instant Ink subscription, remember that the core value proposition of HP+ is intricately linked to its continuous service.
