On January 16, 2025, Tuozhu announced that the company was gradually introducing an authorization and identity authentication mechanism to connect and control Tuozhu 3D printers. This move aims to ensure that only officially authorized printers are accessed and used in order to improve system security and reduce the risk of network attacks and remote hacking.
Tuozhu achieves this by updating to the latest firmware and software,Unauthorized third-party software will be prohibited from performing these critical operations. Including linking and unlinking printers, remote video access (liveview), performing firmware updates, initiating print jobs via cloud or local network and initiating any operation related to motion control system via cloud or LAN, such as temperature adjustment, fan switch, settings. AMS materials and calibration procedures initiated, etc.
The X1 series beta firmware will be released today and the full version on January 23. The Bambu Studio software will be updated on January 21, and the Bambu Handy software was updated in December last year. Users using the new firmware will need to update these software. In addition, all Tuozhu 3D printers, including P and A series, will gradually integrate the authorization control system.
The updated security breaks compatibility with third-party software to control printers, and OcraSlicer will not be able to control OcraSlicer 3D printers via the Bambu network plugin. Instead, users must use the newBambu ConnectSoftware capable of opening slice files exported via OcraSlicer and sending them to the printer, starting and controlling print jobs. Simply put, third-party software can still do the slicing, but the permissions to control printing are transferred to Bambu Connect.
Of course, if users choose not to update to the latest firmware, they can still maintain their current usage state.
In addition, other third-party software or hardware service providers can proactively contact Tuozhu official communication for authorization to adjust their systems and develop solutions compatible with new firmware and authorization control systems . However, by then, existing third-party software or hardware will become ineffective if users upgrade to the latest firmware. To our knowledge, currentlyHive Group Control SystemAlready concerned by this, Biqu had previously launchedPanda Touch control screenIt is also likely that he will be affected.
At this time, we think of the X1Plus firmware which caused a sensation last year. Due to the security flaw in the X1 firmware at that time, the X1Plus team took the opportunity to develop X1Plus, which was called the “jailbroken version” of the. Tuozhu X1 series 3D printer at the time. Obviously, as Tuozhu pays more and more attention to software and firmware security, it is difficult to have such an opportunity again. At that time, Tuozhu also stated that it planned to provide official support for third-party applications or plugins in the future.
What we want to see now is that although Tuozhu strictly holds “machine control” in his own hands,Ability to continue to maintain or develop cooperative relationships with third parties. It is hoped that applications developed by third parties can be used on Tuozhu’s platform.On the “App Store” like Apple’s mobile phoneEven if it requires some fees or commissions, I think developers will be willing to use it. Otherwise, the applications they develop themselves risk one day suddenly becoming unavailable.
The key is that as Tuozhu’s user base continues to increase, user needs become more and more diverse, and the official is obviously unable to meet all needs.
We look forward to the day when Tuozhu becomes different and becomes a more open and diverse platform.
