IMPOSSIBLE to do factory reset on HP Envy Photo 7858

[ShariWE]

I never ordered HP Instant Ink, but was sent the cartridges.  I was told to return them, and I did so.  However, now my printer will not print until I load the Instant Ink cartridges.  The suggestion here (and thanks for that) was to reset the printer.  I have tried endlessly, with call after call to HP for help, but it always goes to "needs to use Instant Ink" and I cannot go any farther.  HP evidently has a scam to MAKE you use their instant ink.  I just want to clear everything, and start like my printer is new - but HP blocks that over and over.  I have asked friends and they say to NEVER buy HP anything, as they will scam you this way, but I would like to just print a few pages like I used to do - before HP demanded I use their Instant Ink cartridges.  I guess all I can do is trash this printer and buy a Cannon or Epson.

[Kuroi_Kenshi]

Hi @ShariWE,

Welcome to the HP Support Community! 

We're thrilled to have the opportunity to assist you and provide a solution.

Thank you for reaching out to us on the HP Support Community. I completely understand how frustrating this situation must feel, and I’d like to clear up the confusion around Instant Ink and your HP Envy Photo 7858.

First, please rest assured that HP does not block your printer to “force” Instant Ink. What’s happening is related to how Instant Ink cartridges work:

Instant Ink cartridges are tied to an active subscription. When the subscription ends (or if the cartridges are returned), the printer will no longer recognize those cartridges.

This is why your printer is asking for Instant Ink cartridges, it’s detecting them but cannot use them without an active plan.

To get your printer working again, you’ll need to use standard HP retail cartridges (purchased from a store or online). Once you install regular cartridges (not Instant Ink ones), your printer will function normally and allow you to print without a subscription.

Regarding the factory reset: while a reset clears settings, it does not change the way cartridges are authenticated. Instant Ink cartridges remain locked to a subscription account, and only standard cartridges will work outside of that program.

Here’s what you can do:

Remove the Instant Ink cartridges from the printer.

Purchase and install a set of standard HP 64 or 64XL cartridges (depending on your region).

Restart your printer — it should now allow you to print without requesting Instant Ink.

I know this hasn’t been the smoothest experience, but you do not have to subscribe to Instant Ink if you prefer not to. Using standard HP cartridges will keep your printer working just like before.

I hope this helps.

I'm glad I could help! 😊 If this resolved your issue, please mark it as "Accepted Solution" and click "Yes" on "Was this reply helpful?" Your feedback not only keeps us going but also helps others find the solution faster! 👍✨

Take care and have an amazing day ahead! 🚀

Best regards,

[ShariWE]

I NEVER subscribed to Instant Ink, but was sent cartridges.  I did NOT install them, but instead called HP support.  I was told to use the plastic bag included with the cartridges and return them unused to HP.  I did so.  However, the Instant Ink program was NEVER removed from my printer.  I have tried every possible way - unplugging and plugging back in...trying to do a complete reset, etc.  I cannot do a reset because it says I still have instant ink.  I only have cartridges I bought retail and were using fine before the Instant Ink demand began showing on my printer.  I know these retail cartridges (from Home Depot) worked before this demand about Instant Ink came up on my computer.  I have called HP help several times to no avail.  One man said he would send two HP cartridges directly from HP, and assure that would solve this, but I have not received any cartridges from HP.

I have had this frustration since JUNE an want it solved, or I just go to every website possible and warn others about this scam, and that HP is NOT the honorable company that you used to be.  I NEED A SOLUTION.

[Kuroi_Kenshi]

Hi @ShariWE,

I understand your frustration,  To review this properly and check the history of the support you’ve already received, could you please share your case ID  with us via private message? This will help us escalate and make sure you get the right resolution.

To access your private messages, simply click the private message icon on the upper right corner of your HP Support Community profile, next to your profile name. 

You can use this link as well: 

Private Messages - HP Support Community

We're looking forward to helping you get back up and running! 

Best regards,