Against a background of blocking firmware updates, Apex has launched Ustation, a worry free and timely solution.
Already up and running a few Ustations are tackling the firmware update issues sent by printer OEMs through internet connections to their customer’s printers that lock out aftermarket supplies and are a constant pain point for the aftermarket community and end users.
One of the challenges for the aftermarket when a disruptive firmware upgrade is sent out is the high return and replace costs that fuels a bad end user experience as the “OEMs seek to gain a monopoly and to remove choice for consumers,” Apex said.
The company “established a dedicated team back in 2015 to resolve this issue for both the aftermarket as well as end users. The team constantly monitors firmware updates released by the OEMs. In 2020, Apex developed and released its own remote upgrade system.” Apex added
Ustations are operated by Apex’s partners and use numerous UniSmart devices that are permanently up to date and can deliver the latest updates. Saving customers from the need to purchase their own UniSmart devices and enabling Ustations to deliver immediate upgrade services for Apex’s other customers in surrounding areas who need a quick and efficient updates for their stocks.
Apex is seeking additional partners willing to establish Ustation centres as they is looking plans to roll out the programme mainly in Europe and America. In each centre, Apex set up the equipment and providing ongoing technical support.
Partners will need warehouse and delivery capabilities and well as technicians who will undertake various upgrading tasks. Apex is seeking partners “that share the same values and goals as Apex. This is our sincere desire. Together with partners, we expect to safeguard the healthy development of the industry.”
In return Apex will provide ongoing technical support and software and hardware platforms. In some cases, Apex will provide seed funding to those who qualify for this level of support.
The Ustation project manager is Olivia Ouyang, who commented: “Apex Ustation team integrates talents and professionals—specialized in hardware services, software services, and IT system services—an embodiment of Apex’s ever increasing service quality for customers and users.”
You can contact ustation@apexmic.com for more details, or email Olivia Ouyang here.
