We deliver the best printing experience to consumers

What is the focus of the new range of products launched in the
imaging and printing segment?

We have a broad range of solutions. With the introduction of new range of
printers, we are committed to deliver the best printing experience for
consumers. By continuing to extend our scalable printing technology more broadly
across our line-up, we have been able to offer higher performance printing at a
range of price points. We are also announcing an expanded portfolio of supply
options to satisfy different usage levels and cost concerns of consumers
throughout Apac. In terms of features, we have also extended our touch-activated
display to three new HP Photosmart printers. These 3.5 inch touch-screens,
coupled with the new Photosmart Express interface, will allow HP Photosmart C8
180 All-in-One, HPD7460 Printer, and HP Photosmart D7260 Printer to offer
customers an effortless walk-up-and-print experience.

What is HPs future strategy in the imaging and printing
segment?

India is a huge market for us now. In all the segments including retail,
online, and home, where we have launched our printers, we see a lot of
potential. Offering what Indian business requires is the key to growth in this
segment. For instance, we have decided to bring Snapfish in the retail segment.
Though there is no market for this at present, we feel that it has to be
created, as retail in India is making giant leap. nThe pricing issues and launch
date in India are yet to be decided. As far as the printing strategy is
concerned, we want consumers to be able to print from websites like blogs and
travel sites with the help of our tools such as HP Smart Web Printing.

As far as the channel strategy goes, it will not be changed. HP
has not created the channel network overnight. So, we will continue to focus on
further consolidation of channel network by sustained alliance with partners who
see value in HPs products.

There seems to be a special focus on the look of the products.
Comment.

HP has always taken care of styling of its products. When a consumer is
making a purchasing decision, style becomes very important, specifically when it
comes to phones, notebooks, PCs, and printers. Though, for us, touch-screen is
not a style, but a feature that HP has put in since it is user-friendly. Though,
touch-screen feature is costly, it will be compensated with the ease-of-use of
the product.

Urvashi Kaul

urvashik@cybermedia.co.in