Microsoft has released a troubleshooter tool to address an issue where the HP Smart app would automatically install on Windows after renaming all printers to HP LaserJet M101-M106. The tool restores previously downloaded model information and icons, removes incorrect metadata, and uninstalls the HP Smart application if necessary. Windows admins and affected users can download the troubleshooter from the Microsoft Download Center and run it with admin privileges. Microsoft advises that it may take a few hours for the changes to take effect.
Microsoft's Windows printer issues, which caused printers to identify themselves as HP and triggered the HP Smart app, may be due to broken metadata pushed out in a November Windows Servicing Stack Update (SSU). The issue appears to lie within Microsoft, as the company has confirmed that it is not caused by an HP update. Microsoft is currently investigating the issue and has advised that extended functions of other manufacturer-supplied printer apps may be affected. Users have reported problems with secure print and scanning. A fix is expected in a March 2021 update.
An independent investigation into the printer issues during the 2022 election in Maricopa County found that older printers and longer ballots printed on heavier paper were to blame for the problem. The investigation refutes conspiracy theories about the printer problems and recommends replacing printers and using previous ballot paper that was shorter and weighed less. All legal ballots were counted and included in the official results, but the printer issues caused frustration for many Election Day voters.
