The OEM’s US subsidiary released two new A3 MFPs under its monochrome A3 line.
Industry Analysts reported on the release, with the OEM’s new series said to feature “state-of-the-art technology for a smarter office experience” and developed in response to “the latest market trends and client needs in the area of office printing”. The “refreshed” machines include the bizhub 458 and 558 MFPs, which replace the “successful” bizhub 454e and 554e series, and the new printers feature “premium high security” functionality.
The devices also offer “even more functionality while being highly reliable and productive”, with “strong features for the office environments that have medium-volume printing needs but don’t require colour output”. Features include Konica Minolta’s INFO-Palette design control panel, which is nine inches in size and features “touch-and-swipe functionality” and a web browser alongside “a wide variety of apps” from the OEM’s bizhub MarketPlace.
The MFPs’ “secure data encryption” includes bizhub SECURE safeguards that ensure documents “have uncompromising security protection”, while specific authentications include “ID card” and “biometric”. The devices also feature “expanded sustainability” including a “reduction in energy consumption” through a “charged roller that control the amount of toner supply”, and “use of recycled materials” in manufacturing alongside ENERGY STAR and EPEAT certifications.
Finally, the printers have “improved usability, flexibility and customisation”, while mobile printing is supported via Apple AirPrint, Google Cloud Print and near-field communication (NFC), and Wi-Fi is “optional”. The two printers are available now in the US market from Konica Minolta’s “direct and channel partners”.
Dino Pagliarello, Vice President of Product Management and Planning at Konica Minolta, commented: “This user-friendly series meets the needs of our customers in various work environments making it an ideal solution. These updated models offer connected and mobile features which play into our ‘work from anywhere, anytime’ credo.”
