Hewlett Packard wanted to provide users a way to print documents almost on any printers available publicly while travelling. Cloudprint is the code name for this project; it allows users to share, print and store documents using a cell phone.

Here’s the concept. This service requires users to store their documents on HP servers which are accessible through internet. The stored file is provided with a code which is sent to the user’s cell phone as a SMS. This file can be retrieved as a PDF by entering the document code or the cell phone number and it can be printed from a nearby printer.

I can store documents online using any of my web mails. Why in this technologically advanced world do I need to depend on HP’s servers to save my files? This is not April, so this ‘innovation’ cannot be considered a joke either. HP’s great technological advancement which permits users to print from any printer around the world is surely the biggest flop of 2007.

Even failures have a silver lining in them. This service also incorporates a directory service involving Google maps for finding the closest available printer.

via NY Times