Some exciting news out of Microsoft headquarters today, with the announcement of their new printing project “Universal Print” entering private preview (private beta).
Microsoft is saying Universal Print will replace key Windows Server functionality, so that Azure users no longer need self-hosted print servers.
Here’s a snippet from the announcement:
Universal Print moves key Windows Server print functionality to the Microsoft 365 cloud, so organizations no longer need on-premises print servers and do not need to install printer drivers on devices. In addition, Universal Print adds key functionality like security groups for printer access, location-based printer discovery, and a rich administrator experience.
Good news for Azure fans wanting to use PaperCut
Between you and me, we’ve been working with Microsoft for a while on this project. It was hush-hush until today, hence why you haven’t heard us talking about it.
Microsoft contacted us early on in development to ensure PaperCut MF and NG would interface with Universal Print from the get-go. Which, as it happens, is what we’re working on right now.
We’re creating an easy-to-use integration with the Azure platform via Universal Print, and we’re looking forward to getting it out in the near future.
PaperCut = vendor agnostic
“The work we’ve put into this project is a shining example of our vendor agnostic approach,” says PaperCut product manager Jamie McClunie.
“We’re passionate about providing excellent print experiences, no matter what a user uses to print,” he continues.
I want to get involved in the private preview!
Here’s the news from Microsoft if you want to get involved in their private preview:
Schools and businesses that want to deploy the private preview of this service must have Windows 10 Enterprise or Education version 1903 or later and have an Azure Active Directory (any edition) tenant.
As always, if you fancy a chat about this exciting development, hit us up in the comments below or email us privately via this super special link.
