Monthly Archives: July 2026

HP has expanded its large format printing portfolio with the launch of the HP DesignJet Z6 and Z9+ PostScript Printer Series Plus Edition, designed to deliver improved image quality, workflow automation and higher productivity for print businesses.

The new series builds on a DesignJet platform that HP says has more than 40,000 units installed worldwide. Combining technologies from the previous Z6 and Z9 models, the latest printers are aimed at businesses producing professional photography, retail graphics, posters and technical drawings.

Targeting small and medium-sized print providers, the printers are designed for a broad range of users, including photo studios, copy shops, retailers, educational establishments and architectural practices looking to manage multiple applications from a single device.

According to HP, the new DesignJet range combines HP Pixel Control technology with HP Vivid Photo Inks to produce sharp detail, smooth colour gradients and water- and fade-resistant prints. The company also says its dual-drop technology delivers high-quality output without the need for additional light inks, helping to simplify the ink system while maintaining image quality.

The HP DesignJet Z9+ Plus Edition has been developed for colour-critical applications, including professional photography and premium graphics production. It features an embedded spectrophotometer for automatic colour calibration, while an optional HP Gloss Enhancer is available to improve gloss uniformity across printed output.

Alongside improvements in image quality, HP has introduced a range of features aimed at increasing production efficiency. The company says new print modes can increase output by up to 90% in certain production scenarios, while dual-roll capability, automatic roll switching and an integrated vertical trimmer on selected models are designed to reduce manual intervention and minimise finishing times.

In addition to the hardware upgrades, HP has strengthened the software ecosystem surrounding the new DesignJet range. Enhanced integration with the HP Click App and Driver is designed to simplify job submission and print preparation, enabling users to process files more efficiently and improve workflow across multiple print applications.

HP has also incorporated HP Wolf Pro Security into the new printer series, providing built-in protection against cyber threats and helping businesses safeguard connected devices, print jobs and sensitive business data as production environments become increasingly digital.

HP expands PrintOS Production Hub

Alongside the printer launch, HP has announced a series of enhancements to HP PrintOS Production Hub. The latest updates include a new Order Approval feature, allowing customers to review and approve jobs before production begins, helping to reduce errors and unnecessary reprints.

HP has also introduced an Orders API, enabling PrintOS Production Hub to integrate with CRM, ERP, MIS and accounting systems to automate order management across existing software platforms. Completing the update is a new AI Upscale Image feature, designed to improve the quality of lower-resolution artwork during file preparation and reduce the need for manual image enhancement before printing.

Commenting on the launch, Daniel Martinez, Senior Vice President and Division President of HP Large Format Printing, said:

"Print businesses today need to do more with less – faster turnaround, broader applications and consistent quality. The HP DesignJet Z6 and Z9+ PostScript Printer Series Plus Edition has been developed to deliver the precision, quality and productivity customers need to grow their businesses profitably."

The HP DesignJet Z6 and Z9+ PostScript Printer Series Plus Edition is expected to be available in the UK from early to mid-July 2026.