In today’s fast-paced world, printing directly from your smartphone is no longer a luxury; it’s a necessity. Whether you need to print work documents, travel tickets, or school assignments, having a mobile printing setup can save you time and hassle. Fortunately, iPhone users have a powerful tool built right into iOS: AirPrint. It allows you to print without downloading any drivers or apps.
But what if your printer doesn’t support AirPrint? Don’t worry, there are reliable alternatives that make it just as easy to print from your iPhone using manufacturer apps or even a USB connection.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to add a printer to iPhone using both AirPrint and non-AirPrint methods, so you can print anything, anytime, with minimal setup.
What is AirPrint and How Does It Work?
AirPrint is Apple’s built-in wireless printing technology, available on all iPhones running iOS 4.2 or later. It lets you print high-quality photos and documents directly from your iPhone without installing printer drivers or third-party apps.
Key Features of AirPrint
- Driverless printing: No need to download or install software.
- Seamless integration: Works with built-in iOS apps like Safari, Mail, Photos, Notes, and third-party apps that support printing.
- Wi-Fi connectivity: Your iPhone and printer must be connected to the same Wi-Fi network for AirPrint to work.
When you select “Print” on your iPhone, iOS scans the local network for compatible printers. If an AirPrint-enabled printer is found, it appears in the list automatically, so no pairing or manual setup is needed.
AirPrint-Compatible Devices
Most modern printers from top brands like HP, Canon, Epson, and Brother support AirPrint. You can refer to Apple’s official list of AirPrint-enabled printers to check if your current printer is compatible.
How to Add a Printer to iPhone Using AirPrint
Adding a printer to your iPhone with AirPrint is incredibly straightforward. Just follow these simple steps:
1. Connect iPhone and Printer to the Same Wi-Fi Network
AirPrint relies on Wi-Fi to detect and communicate with printers. Your iPhone and printer must be connected to the same Wi-Fi network.
2. Open the App You Want to Print From
You can print directly from most native iOS apps, such as:
- Safari (web pages)
- Mail (emails and attachments)
- Photos (images)
- Notes (documents)
- Files, Pages, and more
3. Tap the Share Icon and Select “Print.”
- Tap the Share icon (a square with an arrow pointing up).
- Scroll down and tap Print.
- The Printer Options screen will open.
- Tap Select Printer to find and choose your AirPrint-enabled printer.
- Customize your print settings (such as number of copies or page range) as needed.
4. Tap “Print” in the Upper Right Corner
Once your settings are in place, tap Print in the top-right corner. Your document or photo will be sent to the printer instantly.
How to Add a Printer to iPhone Without AirPrint
If your printer doesn’t support AirPrint, you can still print from your iPhone using the manufacturer’s dedicated printing app. These apps are designed to bridge the gap between your iPhone and non-AirPrint printers, offering full control and reliable connectivity.
1. Using Manufacturer Apps
Most major printer brands offer their iOS-compatible printing apps. These apps allow you to add your printer, scan documents, monitor ink levels, and print directly from your phone.
Popular iPhone Printing Apps to Use:
- HP Smart App – Ideal for all modern HP printers.
- Canon PRINT Inkjet/SELPHY – Supports Canon PIXMA and SELPHY models.
- Epson iPrint – Works with Epson EcoTank and Expression series printers.
- Brother iPrint&Scan – Compatible with a wide range of Brother inkjet and laser printers.
2. How to Use a Manufacturer App
- Download the app from the App Store that corresponds to your printer brand.
- Ensure the printer and iPhone are connected to the same Wi-Fi network.
- Open the app and add your printer (the app will usually auto-detect compatible printers).
- Select the file, photo, or document you want to print from within the app.
- Tap Print and you’re done.
Can You Print from an iPhone Using a USB Cable?
You can print from an iPhone using a USB cable, but it has a few caveats.
This method is mainly useful if you have an older printer that doesn’t support Wi-Fi or AirPrint. However, since iPhones use a Lightning or USB-C port (depending on the model), you’ll need an adapter to make the connection work.
What You’ll Need:
- A Lightning-to-USB Camera Adapter (for iPhones with Lightning ports)
or
A USB-C to USB Adapter (for newer iPhones with USB-C) - A USB cable that connects your printer to the adapter
- A printer that supports USB printing from mobile devices
Final Tips for Smooth iPhone Printing
To ensure a seamless printing experience from your iPhone, keep these key tips in mind:
-
Update iOS and printer firmware: Fixes compatibility issues.
-
Use the latest printer app: It helps, especially if you are not using AirPrint.
-
Restart devices if needed: Resolves connection glitches.
-
Check network connection: iPhone and printer must share the same Wi-Fi.
Final Thoughts
Adding a printer to your iPhone is simple and convenient with AirPrint, offering seamless wireless printing without extra software. Even if your printer doesn’t support AirPrint, manufacturer apps provide reliable alternatives for easy mobile printing. While USB printing is possible, it’s less common and depends on your printer’s capabilities. Following these methods and updating your devices, you can enjoy hassle-free printing anytime, anywhere. For the best experience, consider using an AirPrint-enabled printer to ensure smooth, driverless printing from your iPhone.
If you’re managing larger projects, exploring the best printing and mailing partners can also help streamline communication and outreach.
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