Ricoh launches HotSpot mobile print app for BlackBerry

Ricoh Americas Corporation announced this morning that it will now be providing Ricoh HotSpot, a mobile printing application for BlackBerry smartphones that will allow customers to print to publicly available HotSpot-enabled printers powered by PrinterOn.

HotSpot-enabled printers receive forwarded documents via email or upload from a URL so the application can be used with a BlackBerry smartphone or Web-enabled computer. No drivers or software are necessary besides the free download accessed on BlackBerry App World.

The idea is similar to wireless print apps released for inkjet devices from Canon, Epson, HP, etc. but with the HotSpot printing app, the printer receives the job and holds it until the user punches in their unique print release code, keeping private documents safe until the user arrives at the printer.

Matt Sakauchi, vice president of Ricoh's office printer business group, said the latest technology allows “business professionals … added convenience and functionality."

Ricoh will be offering enhancements on the first generation of Ricoh HotSpots later this year with additional functionality for multifunction products. Get more information about HotSpot printers and the HotSpot application at Ricoh.com.