What's going on?

Stratasys � one of the largest companies dedicated to 3D printing and the producer of MakerBot � has launched a new 3D printer that is being heralded as a breakthrough for the burgeoning manufacturing revolution being brought about by 3D printing.

What does this mean?

This new printer can print 360,000 colors and a combination of 6 different materials. According to TechRepublic, the ability to combine multiple materials like metal and wood greatly improves the quality of output � for example, by significantly increasing the strength of the printed object. That�s huge for industrial designers who can use 3D printing to (relatively) easily make a prototype of a new design. It can, in the words of Stratasys, �compress and de-risk� the process of bringing a product to market � which just means it�s cheaper and easier to design and build new stuff.

Why should I care?

The bigger picture: 3D printing has the potential to significantly decrease the cost of innovation. Yes, it�ll be kind of cool to print out Lego pieces at home. But more importantly, the new technology enables efficient product development that should lead to faster innovation, increased competition, and, ultimately, better products for everyone.

For you personally: Better technology should lead to lower prices and higher living standards. For example, medical devices are already being made at a much lower cost by utilizing 3D printing; that should ultimately make such life-saving technology more widespread. However, there are undoubtedly more controversial applications (e.g. 3D printed weapons). But over the course of human history, technological development has generally led to higher standards of living. Let�s hope 3D printing has the same effect.