Cartridges stopped working after a printer update

Take the cartridge out, check its contacts are clean and undamaged, and push it back firmly until it clicks. Then, with the printer on, unplug it for 60 seconds and plug it back in. A poorly seated cartridge can give the same message as one that's being rejected.

Print the printer's configuration, status or information page from its menu, or open its web page, and look for the firmware version. Some printers also show when the last update was installed. If the version changed around the time the cartridges stopped working, the update is a likely cause.

Fit an original cartridge from the printer's maker, if you have one or can borrow one. If it's accepted while the non-original one isn't, the problem is how the printer reads that cartridge's chip, not a broken printer. If an original is rejected too, follow our cartridge not recognized fix instead.

Get in touch with the seller or supplier of the non-original cartridges through their website or your order page. Many offer replacements with updated chips, a refund, or advice for particular printer models. Have your order details, your printer model and a photo of the error message ready.

Printer makers publish information about cartridge compatibility and firmware updates on their official support websites, and some say which models use cartridge security features. Reading it for your model tells you what to expect from future updates.

Many printers let you choose whether firmware updates install automatically, notify you first, or wait for a manual check; look in the printer's menu, its web page or the maker's app. Notify-first lets you read the update notes and ask your cartridge seller before installing. Updates also fix security flaws and bugs, so keep installing them when you're ready.

Open the maker's app, or Settings > Bluetooth & devices > Printers & scanners > your printer > Printing preferences, and check the supplies or status area (Windows 10: Settings > Devices > Printers & scanners). Note which cartridges show an error or an unknown level.

If the maker's app installed the update, look in its printer settings for firmware or update options. Names vary between makers, so use the app's help if you can't find them.

Type the printer's IP address into a browser to open its built-in web page. Many have a firmware, update or maintenance section that shows the current version and the automatic update setting.

Open System Settings > Printers & Scanners, click your printer, then Options & Supplies > Supply Levels. A cartridge with no level or a warning is the one being rejected.

In Options & Supplies, click Show Printer Webpage if it's offered, or type the printer's IP address into Safari. Look for the firmware version and the update settings.

If you use the maker's Mac app, its printer settings may include firmware update options and supply details that macOS doesn't show.