New printer Ratings: Some models are Web-enabled

Smart phones, particularly the iPhone, have generally received the lion's share of attention when it comes to apps, software applications that are downloaded onto a consumer electronic device. But other devices are getting into the act, including printers. Two that can download apps–the HP PhotoSmart Premium Web and the Lexmark Platinum Pro905–are both now in our all-in-one printer Ratings, which have just been updated. Both cost about $300, which is pricey for an all-in-one.

In theory, these well-connected printers should let you print something without having to use a computer. Both do require a 'Net connection, though they go about their business quite differently.

The HP has a dozen or so built-in apps, with eight more free ones available for downloading. The interface is quite clean and intuitive. HP includes, among others, a USA Today app (for printing a page or two of news), a Google Maps app (for printing maps and directions), a Snapfish app (for logging into a photo-sharing account and printing photos) and a Weathernews app (for local weather). Before you print something, you can preview it on a touchscreen. The web connectivity is well-thought out. It even lets you download updates to the printer's firmware without using a computer.

Lexmark's printer, on the other hand, did not quite hit the mark. It includes just two built-in apps (ID Card Copy and Photo Reprint) that weren't very intuitive or useful. Plus, in order to download apps, you must use your computer, which defeats the purpose of having 'Net connectivity. Like HP, Lexmark did have a number of apps available (19 as of this writing) online, but we didn't think they were very compelling and or added much value to the printer.

In addition to all-in-one printers, we also have new regular inkjets and snapshot printers in our Ratings.

Do you think an Internet-connected printer is a gadget whose time has come, or just a flash in the pan? Weigh in below.

—Terry Sullivan