In the UK we have systems in place where postage can be paid for online using various methods, which then allows you to print out a postage label on your home printer. It is basically a label with a barcode type image, which can be read by sorting technology. One disadvantage of this system is that there is technically no stamp as such, just a label. The address has to be added by the software so it is not a quick process, and the idea of bulk printing postage labels is out of the question.

The Americans are planning to roll out trials whereby this idea will be taken a step further, by allowing a printer to print an actual physical stamp which can then be used on postage. It is a complex idea with many different methods being discussed. The overall concept is that any picture or photograph and any value can be used on a stamp, which is designed through real time internet software. Once the design is completed by the user, the software then adds a sequence of specific coded dots into the design. It is best to think of it as a high-tech barcode hidden within an image.

Preliminary reports are sketchy, but experts suggest that it would only work on photo quality printers, and specific paper would need to be purchased from post offices. As the stamp is printed the coded design is entered into a live database, and will be read by sorting equipment. The image will remain on the database for an estimated five days, so the item must be posted fairly quickly. No information regarding the security measures that will be put in place have been discussed.

It is in the very early stages of development, but potential problems have already been raised by experts. The main problem stems from the fact that any image would technically be available for use on a stamp, which leads to huge areas of concern regarding unsuitable or offensive images, and of course copyright issues. It remains to be seen how the American postal authorities plan to deal with all the potential problems, but we could in theory be looking at a whole new era of digital postage.

Mark Steele

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