Google is planning to add Cloud Print, a universal printing support function, to its Chrome OS, which is due to be launched later this year.
Google’s Cloud Print is being designed to provide a printing function that allows any web, desktop, or mobile application to print to any printer anywhere in the world. This innovative feature will enable users to forget about troublesome print drivers altogether, as they will no longer be needed. By leveraging the power of the cloud, Google aims to simplify the printing process and make it more accessible and efficient for everyone.
How Google Cloud Print Works
The cloud print system has a few obstacles to overcome, such as communicating with your printer. However, Google is developing solutions to ensure seamless integration. The core idea is that instead of relying on traditional print drivers, which can be cumbersome and often require manual updates, Cloud Print will use a cloud-based service to manage print jobs. When a user sends a print command from any device, the job is sent to Google’s servers, which then relay it to the appropriate printer.
This system is not just aimed at computers; Google hopes its Cloud Print solution will be used on phones, tablets, and any other web-enabled devices. This means that whether you’re at home, in the office, or on the go, you can easily print documents, photos, and more without worrying about compatibility issues or having the correct drivers installed.
Benefits and Potential Applications
One of the significant benefits of Google Cloud Print is its versatility. For example, imagine you’re traveling for work and need to print a presentation for a meeting. With Cloud Print, you can send the document to a printer at your destination from your mobile device, ensuring it’s ready when you arrive. This can save time and reduce the stress associated with last-minute printing.
Another potential application is in educational settings. Students and teachers can print assignments, notes, and other materials from their personal devices to school printers without needing to connect to the school’s network or install specific drivers. This can streamline the printing process and make it more convenient for everyone involved.
Additionally, businesses can benefit from Cloud Print by simplifying their IT infrastructure. Instead of managing multiple print drivers for different devices and printers, IT departments can rely on a single cloud-based solution. This can reduce maintenance costs and improve overall efficiency.
Google has some documents about the system that can be viewed here. These documents provide more detailed information about how Cloud Print works, its architecture, and the various use cases it supports. By making this information available, Google aims to encourage developers and businesses to adopt and integrate Cloud Print into their workflows.
Moreover, Google is likely to continue expanding and improving Cloud Print over time. As more users adopt the service and provide feedback, Google can refine the system to address any issues and add new features. This iterative approach ensures that Cloud Print will remain a cutting-edge solution for modern printing needs.
Via Tech Crunch
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