Epson expanding mobile and cloud printing services

The new and expanded services will include original Epson solutions, collectively known as Epson Connect, to be launched in spring 2011.

In recent years, increasing numbers of people have used smartphones and tablets to send electronic mail, browse web pages, and create presentations and documents. However, it has been difficult for users to print out their work because mobile devices have not been equipped with a printer driver. The widespread use of these devices has also increased demand for printing services for people on the go who want to print documents when they are outside the office or the home.

Epson Connect launched

To meet these needs, Epson has launched original mobile services known as Epson Connect, which includes the Email Print and Epson iPrint solutions. Email Print is a service that allows customers to print out electronic mail and file attachments by simply sending an email from their smartphones or other mobile device to an enabled Epson printer. By using this service, people on the move can check mail on mobile devices and print out essential emails and attachments such as documents, presentations and tickets on Epson printers in their home, office, and other locations.

Epson iPrint is a print application for the latest iOS- and Android-based devices. By downloading the Epson iPrint application and connecting to a wi-fi-enabled printer, users can print out a wide range of contents ranging from photos and documents to recipes, coupons, and web pages.

Other companies' mobile solutions to be supported

Epson has also declared its commitment to supporting mobile solutions provided by other companies. These will be announced separately, with initial services to be available from September, 2011. By supporting these solutions, Epson hopes to provide a platform for customers to print out documents regardless of their location, and without a printer driver.

"Epson is delighted to announce the launch of Epson Connect," says Kelvin Reynolds, regional manager of Epson Southern Africa. "We are thoroughly committed to exceeding the expectations of our customers, and firmly believe that Epson Connect and other cutting-edge mobile and cloud services provide enhanced options by allowing enterprise and other customers to connect with Epson devices wherever they may be."