# Open-Source Inkjet Printers The Open Printer is an Open-Source Colour Inkjet Printer By Amy Duong | Published 2026-07-16 | Lifestyle Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/the-open-printer References: [opentools.studio](https://www.opentools.studio/)  The Open Printer is an open-source colour inkjet printer developed by Paris-based startup [Open Tools](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/blockface) to provide an alternative to proprietary consumer printing systems. Powered by a [Raspberry Pi Zero W](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/open-printer), the printer supports monochrome and colour printing while using refillable [HP](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/hp-smart-tank-7000) ink cartridges without digital restrictions. The modular design is available as either a self-assembly kit or a pre-assembled unit and connects to Windows, macOS, Linux, Android and iOS devices through the open-source CUPS print server. The printer is constructed from standard mechanical components that can be repaired or modified, with options for wall mounting, desktop use and 3D-printed custom parts. The project is distributed under a Creative Commons BY-NC-SA 4.0 licence, allowing users to share and modify the design for non-commercial purposes. Open Tools recently demonstrated a working prototype following the project's 2025 debut. Image Credit: Open Tools ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 9.2/10 - Popularity: 95% | Activity: 95% | Freshness: 85% - Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women - Primary generations: Gen Z, Millennial, Gen X - Top markets: North America, South America, Europe, Asia, Africa ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Lifestyle](https://www.trendhunter.com/lifestyle) ## Key Themes ### Why This Trend Is Growing - **Open-source Hardware:** Community-accessible device designs create room for lower-cost electronics ecosystems that challenge locked-down consumer technology models. - **Repairable Printing Systems:** Modular components and refillable cartridges signal a shift toward products built around longevity, customization and reduced dependence on manufacturer-controlled consumables. - **Maker-friendly Peripherals:** Self-assembly kits and 3D-printable parts expand the role of hobbyists and small businesses in adapting everyday office hardware to niche needs. ### Industries Being Reshaped - **Consumer Electronics:** Open and modifiable devices introduce competitive pressure on proprietary hardware categories by emphasizing transparency, repairability and user control. - **Printing and Imaging:** Restriction-free cartridges and open print server compatibility point to new service models centered on affordable supplies and cross-platform accessibility. - **Desktop Manufacturing:** Standard mechanical parts and customizable enclosures connect home fabrication tools with practical appliance design, enabling localized production and modification. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Air Fryer Microwaves](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/ninja-crispi-microwave.md) - [Airline Shared Table Seating](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/economy-plus-shared-table.md) - [Structural Collapsible Folding Stools](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/kinzo.md) - [Pancake-Style Prime Photography Lenses](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/pancakestyle-prime-lens.md) - [Glare-Reducing Eyewear Technologies](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/polarized-collection.md) - [Abstract Home Collections](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/soft-imprints.md) - [Mixed Metal Jewelry](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/the-duet-collection.md) - [Design QA Tools](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/designsync.md) - [Coastal Light Installations](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/oassaether.md)