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The European Parliatment has just struck a blow for consumers by banning the use of chips in computer printer ink cartridges that restrict users' ability to use cheaper brands or recycle the cartridges.

According to the Register:

"The European Parliament voted unanimously on Wednesday in favour of a new EU 'electroscrap' recycling law, which includes a ruling directing manufacturers of printers to no longer incorporate chips into their own-brand ink refill cartridges. These chips prevent cartridges produced by other manufacturers from being used in many printers.

In addition, proponents of the measure say the chips prevent them from being refilled -- a feature on many cartridges made by printer manufacturers."

Comments: As the article goes on to say, the new law may also be a blow against consumers, as manufacturers such as HP are critically dependent on ink cartridge sales to maintain revenue and may actually raise prices to compensate. If prices are raised, you may be sure this will be the reason cited, in any case.