After several bugs encountered by Windows 11 and 10 users regarding their printer, Microsoft has just acknowledged its share of responsibility in the problem.
Since the beginning of December 2023, Windows 11 and 10 users have encountered rather strange problems with their printer. It all started with the sudden installation of the HP Smart application on many users’ PCs. A rather bizarre bug, especially since it concerns all computers, even those which are not HP branded or which are not connected to a printer from the manufacturer.
A few days later, we reported in our columns that this problem was ultimately more serious than we thought. Indeed, since the last update of Microsoft’s OS, the system systematically recognizes peripherals like the HP LaserJet M101-M106, even if you are equipped with another model. Additionally, when clicking on the renamed printer, users were shown the following error message: “No tasks are available for this page”.
Microsoft admits responsibility for printer bugs
At first glance, one might think that the problem comes from HP, the brand being visibly at the center of this wave of bugs. Nevertheless, Microsoft has just shared some information on the subject: “Our investigations indicate that the problem is not caused by an HP update. In most cases, it should be possible to use the affected printer as intended, including queuing print jobs, as well as other features such as copying, scanning, or printing. fax”, assures the Redmond firm.
She continues: “The device’s printers will continue to use the expected drivers for printing operations. However, the problem may affect associations with other printer applications provided by the manufacturer, which are particularly used to extend the basic capabilities of the printer.
Where do these bugs come from? A theory makes sense
In other words, this bug should not affect the overall operation of your “famous” printer, but on the other hand, you may have difficulty using certain features exclusive to your device. For now, Microsoft is still investigating the source of the problem. According to our colleagues at Windows Latest, the recent Windows update would have used incorrect printer metadatas. This is why a connected printer would be wrongly identified as this HP model mentioned above.
As a result, Windows would then automatically install the HP Smart application from the Microsoft Store, convinced that an HP printer is now connected to the system. Casually, this theory has the merit of explaining the origin of the two bugs. We now have to wait for Microsoft’s conclusions on the subject.