Canon Germany has issued a statement (http://ow.ly/CxaB30s6POA) saying that, due to a lack of chips for its MFP toners, it is selling them without chips. So, it has explained to customers how to bypass its own Digital Rights Management (DRM), also affecting toner level detection.

English translation: Impact of Semiconductor Shortage on Consumables for the Canon MFP We value you as a customer and a constant user of Canon products. Due to the persistent global shortage of semiconductor components, Canon is currently facing challenges in sourcing certain electronic components that are used in our consumables for our multifunction printers (MFP). These components control, for example, features such as the detection of the remaining toner level. In order to ensure a continuous and reliable supply of consumables, we have decided to deliver consumables without semiconductor components until normal supply is restored. There is no negative impact on print quality when using consumables without electronic components, but certain additional functions, such as e.g.. the detection of the toner level may be impaired.