Owners of widely used Epson inkjet printers have raised concerns about devices that seem to halt operation after a set period. Reports surfaced in Gizmodo that some models display messages indicating the end of their service life and stop functioning, even when no obvious wear has occurred.
A reader described his expensive Epson printer suddenly becoming unusable with a warning about hitting a service limit. He claimed the company has built in a feature that causes the printer to stop after a fixed number of printed pages rather than because of actual degradation.
Gizmodo notes that models such as the Epson L130, L220, L310, L360, and L365 appear affected. Journalists have not ruled out the possibility that other versions could be impacted as well.
Initial reports of these so‑called failures date back roughly five years. Some users have posted videos showing DIY resets, where they replace components to bypass the blockage and keep printing. This phenomenon has sparked broad discussion about how consumer printers are designed to fare over time.
Additionally, there have been references to similar issues on Windows 10, where USB-connected printers allegedly encounter operational errors that disrupt printing tasks. The scope of the problem suggests a broader conversation about device lifecycle, firmware controls, and consumer expectations.
Experts and commentators have pointed out that firmware updates can change printer behavior, sometimes to enforce maintenance schedules or cartridge replacement prompts. Users who rely on ongoing print jobs may encounter frustration when a device seems to reach an artificial limit. In some cases, workarounds involve firmware resets or cartridge management changes, though such actions can void warranties or violate terms of service. The broader takeaway is that printer longevity can be influenced by firmware strategies as much as by hardware wear, leading to ongoing debates about consumer rights and device design. (Gizmodo)