Images From the Cloud A look at some new options for web-driven printing
By Jonathan Blum •
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Small-business printing took a couple of unique turns this year: First, Google announced plans for Google Cloud Print, which will be built into the coming Google Chrome operating system and would allow any web-connected imaging device to crank out documents from any PC or mobile device. Then, FedEx Office announced that it is rolling out 12,000 new networked printers in its retail stores to support direct printing from smartphones and cloud imaging.
Meanwhile, printer makers are hustling to show off their web-ready imaging devices that will meet the needs of small businesses. Here are our picks for business printers that should rock the cloud.
Epson WorkForce 610 ($199)
What gets this printer on the cloud imaging list is not only its blistering print speed of 38 pages per minute, but also its Wi-Fi networking and impressive set of PC-free printing options. Besides PC-less printing of photos, the 610 supports several direct-print options for digital files. If you do it right, you can keep your business collateral stored on your printer and then print things such as brochures, cards and envelopes with one touch as you need them. That's pretty slick.
