In the “why didn’t I think of this!” department, we have the Little Printer Concept by Berg. It basically seems like a cash register thermal printer (in much nicer packaging) that sits in your home and prints messages, puzzles, etc.
I could see this being very useful for older consumers who are resistant to technology. Imagine printing medication instructions or doctor appointment reminders or any reminder. Another use might be adult children using it to send their parents messages that they can rip and read anywhere.
I love the simplicity of the design and the fact that you can take the output anywhere you want (unlike a WIFI-digital picture frame or other “high tech” solution). I really hope this product comes to market. The video is definitely worth a look.
Hello Little Printer, available 2012 from BERG on Vimeo.
Two problems:
1. Thermal fax paper like this is not recyclable.
2. Such paper contains toxic materials that rub off on fingers.
http://www.nhregister.com/articles/2011/06/09/news/doc4df05c7dc6919266972351.txt
http://www.ewg.org/bpa-in-store-receipts
http://www.rodale.com/bpa-receipts
Ed
Excellent points. Improve the printer!