Stallman from FSF would probably say only if the software is updateable. Firmware which can’t be changed is no different from hardware. I kind of agree, even though he said that about open source. But the point still stands. If printer can’t be used without account or always online or ink. Then it’s a feature. Whether you agree with it or not, vote with your wallet. However if they hide the feature that’s misleading advertising and it’s a different crime all together.
But what HP tried to do is to send over the air update that prevented printers from using recycled toner. Now that’s a bitch move.