| Earlier this month we saw the launch of the new | | | | offers multiple functions such as printing, scanning and |
| Canon multifunction printer. It is one of a series of | | | | copying but at a reasonably good price. Print speeds |
| new releases that the company hopes will place it at | | | | may be a little down on other competitors, but it |
| the head of the market for all-in-one devices. | | | | does its job well. Already it is becoming a big hit with |
| However they face a difficult environment. | | | | students who need the functions, but have limited |
| Here in the UK we have been slow to adopt all-in-one | | | | space. |
| printers. While the continent have embraced them | | | | Consumers are becoming more cautious. They are |
| with open arms we are still holding back, wary of the | | | | willing to pay high prices, but for that they want |
| high prices. However market experts believe that will | | | | products to prove their value. A large corporation |
| change. As costs reduce we will gradually feel | | | | with its high marketing overheads will always be |
| comfortable with the new technology and when we | | | | vulnerable to a more nimble competitor who can do |
| do the value of that market will be considerable. | | | | the same for less. The Canon Multifunction printer will |
| Manufacturers are therefore jostling to be at the | | | | face tough competition from another major player in |
| head of the field when buying picks up. | | | | the field, Kodac. Its devices promise high end |
| The Canon Multifunction printer is aiming for head of | | | | performance and low end cost. It's a compelling |
| the class status. It provides printing, scanning and | | | | combination and will work for a lot of customers. |
| copying services all neatly packed within a single | | | | Despite all the buzz surrounding the launch, the |
| device. It also incorporates wireless technology | | | | challenge facing anyone hoping to market the Canon |
| meaning computers can connect to it from anywhere | | | | Multifunction printer is stark and simple. In a |
| in the office. As part of the ongoing streamlining | | | | complicated market, they have to somehow find a |
| process of the entire office environment Canon | | | | niche. That means a range of products designed to |
| believes it can turn itself into the market leader by | | | | meet different needs: namely those at the top end |
| offloading a barrage of new products. | | | | of the market who are willing to pay top dollar for |
| However, they do have competition. The HP Deskjet | | | | high performance and those who may want |
| F4480 traditionally scores well in user reviews. It | | | | something cheaper. |