Support for cloud-based printing isn’t new for Canon, but the company has enhanced this feature with the new Pixma Printing Solutions (PPS) app for iOS and Android smart devices, as well as compatible Canon printers like the new Pixma MG7120 and MG5520. The app lets you print a variety of files from services that include Facebook, Twitter, Flickr, Dropbox, Picasa Web Albums, Evernote, and Photobucket, as well as Canon’s own services, Image Gateway, Creative Park Premium, and Creative Park.
Here’s how the app works: After you download the free PPS app, you’ll need to register with Canon’s Pixma Cloud Link service. Once your authorize access to your accounts with any of the aforementioned services, you can then print Word, Excel, JPEG, PDF, and PowerPoint files stored online. The app also allows remote printing (print photos of your vacation to a friend’s compatible printer, for example). You can also use the app to scan from the printer and have the file sent to your smart device. The new app won’t work with all Canon printers, so double-check before you download.
As for the new printers, the MG7120 and MG5520 uses the space saving design that Canon introduced late last year. The MG7120 offers auto duplexing and disc printing using a six-color ink system. Canon rates the speed as 15 pages per minute in black and 10 in color, with a max resolution of 9,600 dpi. There are two paper feeds, one for regular paper and one for photo paper. The printer uses Canon’s Intelligent Touch System where only the relevant buttons for a specific function light up, allowing for a clutter-free surface. It comes in black, white, red, or brown.
The MG5520 is similar to the MG7120 in terms of feature-set, although it has a smaller display (2.5 inches versus 3.5) and doesn’t offer memory card slots. It also uses a five-color ink system instead, and Canon rates the speed at 12.2 ppm for black and 10 for color. It comes in only black or white. Both support Apple AirPrint and Google Cloud Print, as well as the new PPS app mentioned, and you can set the printer to act as an access point for direct wireless printing without connecting to a wireless router.
The MG7120 will sell for $200 and the MG5520 at $150.
Pixma MG7120
Pixma MG5520
