But, and this is where you really need to pay attention to what you read on screen, you can voluntarily accept an update that can lock out your choice of inks (chips really). The messages that pop up offering them seem encouraging. They're is no reason ever to update a printer that you are considering to use for your choice of inks.
So, just never opt-in to any firmware updates or any updates whether they say firmware or not.
When you install Epson software for the first time a tendency to accept screens without really reading can occur - and that is where you may sign up to get firmware updates pushed to you. Just do not do anything like that. If you need Epson software, download the driver and utilities separately. Do not download the Combo package because it installs an updater. The updater will install things pushed to you.
The only way you can knock out your choice on these printers is to do it yourself usually by not reading the windows that you click when they popup because they're annoying and annoying windows are bothersome and sometimes not worth reading. Stay vigilant! :)
best,
Jon Cone