HP Sprocket portable printer for smartphones launched in India

While smartphones have become prominent and an important device in the world today, Global PC and printing hardware solutions provider HP has just launched an interesting product for consumers as well smartphone enthusiasts in India.

Well, the company has unveiled a new pocket-sized photo printer called HP Sprocket in India for Rs. 8,999. What's unique about this device? This hand-held printer allows users to take instant printouts of pictures from their smartphones be it at a shopping mall, a restaurant or at a movie theatre.

The printer can be paired with any smartphone using the Bluetooth and the Sprocket app which can be downloaded from Google Play Store or Apple App Store. The companion app also enables users to print photographs directly from their social media accounts on Facebook and Instagram.

Further, the printer comes with specially-designed HP ZINK papers. In any case, HP Sprocket aims to make physical photo printing convenient, affordable and enjoyable for youth.

"The device is specially made for the millennial segment which is between age 10-24. But we are not restricting our target to that age group only. People who like to preserve their memories would like to own the 'Sprocket' which is a pretty affordable device," Raj Kumar Rishi, Senior Director, Printing Systems, HP Inc India, told IANS.

He added, "Sprocket' printer allows users to print their treasured memories instantly on-the go with just a few taps."

"While smartphones have made it very simple to store our memories digitally, the power of printing photographs cannot be undermined. The moment a digital photograph gets printed, it becomes a tangible treasure one can cherish for life."

The company is using ZINK printing technology for "Sprocket" printer. HP ZINK paper would be available for Rs. 539 for a pack of 20 sheets and Rs. 1,249 for a pack of 50 sheets.

Consumers will also get a complimentary pack of 10 ZINK papers with the box at the time of purchase, the company said. The peel-and-stick backing property of ZINK paper can turn the photos into fun stickers too.

HP 'Sprocket' printer will be available via Amazon India and will come in black, red and white color variants.