Inkless Printing
The Imaging Resource reports that consumer products are now underway based on inkless printing technology developed by startup company ZINK. First out: A digital point-and-shoot camera with a built-in printer.
A couple of comments: First, I would expect this technology to have greater appeal in cell phones, where you could also print business cards, address labels, SMS messages and so on. Second, the new phone uses a traditional 3:2 aspect ratio. I have never been a fan of the 4:3 format, so I think this is great;but there are inherent inefficiencies in wider aspect ratios that make them less attractive for compact cameras.
Either way, Polaroid enthusiasts should be thrilled with the new technology—but will it have enough mass market appeal to catch on?
August 14, 2007 #