Printing from your smartphone or tablet has become more convenient than ever. Whether you use an Android or iPhone, you can easily print documents, photos, and web pages without needing a computer. This guide will walk you through the best ways to enable mobile printing and ensure seamless connectivity with your printer.
1. Use Built-in Mobile Printing Features
Most smartphones come with built-in printing features that allow you to print wirelessly.
For iPhone (AirPrint)
Apple devices include AirPrint, a built-in feature that lets you print without installing additional drivers.
- Connect your iPhone and printer to the same WiFi network.
- Open the document, photo, or webpage you want to print.
- Tap the Share icon and select Print.
- Choose your AirPrint-enabled printer and adjust settings if necessary.
- Tap Print to start printing.
For Android (Default Print Service & Mopria Print Service)
Android devices also have built-in print functionality:
- Open Settings and go to Connected devices > Printing.
- Ensure Default Print Service or Mopria Print Service is enabled.
- Open the document or photo you want to print.
- Tap the Menu (three dots) and select Print.
- Choose your printer and adjust settings before printing.
2. Print Using Manufacturer-Specific Apps
Most major printer brands offer mobile apps for wireless printing. These apps provide extra features such as scanning, remote printing, and ink level monitoring.
- HP Smart App – Works with HP printers
- Canon PRINT Inkjet/SELPHY – For Canon printers
- Epson iPrint – Supports Epson printers
- Brother iPrint&Scan – For Brother printers
How to Print Using a Printer App
- Download and install the relevant printer app from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store.
- Ensure your phone and printer are connected to the same WiFi network.
- Open the app and select the file you want to print.
- Choose your printer and customize print settings.
- Tap Print to start printing.
3. Use Cloud Printing Services
Cloud-based printing allows you to print from anywhere without being on the same network as your printer.
Google Cloud Print (Alternative Solutions)
Although Google Cloud Print has been discontinued, alternatives include:
- HP ePrint – Send print jobs via email to an HP printer.
- Epson Email Print – Email documents directly to your Epson printer.
- Brother Cloud Print – Allows remote printing to Brother printers.
How to Use Email Printing
- Find your printer’s email address from the manufacturer’s app or settings.
- Attach the document or image to an email.
- Send the email to the printer’s unique email address.
- Your printer will automatically process and print the file.
4. Print via USB or OTG Connection
If your printer does not support WiFi, you can print using a USB On-The-Go (OTG) cable.
Steps to Print Using USB OTG
- Check if your phone supports OTG (most modern Android devices do).
- Connect your phone to the printer using a USB OTG adapter and USB cable.
- Install the PrinterShare app or another USB printing app.
- Select the document and send it to the printer.
5. Print Using Third-Party Apps
Several third-party apps support a variety of printers and offer additional print options:
- PrinterShare – Works with WiFi, Bluetooth, and USB printers.
- NokoPrint – Supports various printer brands.
- PrintHand Mobile Print – Enables cloud and wireless printing.
How to Use Third-Party Printing Apps
- Download the app from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store.
- Connect your printer via WiFi, USB, or Bluetooth.
- Open the app, select the document, and choose your printer.
- Adjust settings and print your file.
Final Thoughts
With modern mobile printing solutions, you can print directly from your Android or iPhone without needing a computer. Whether you use AirPrint, Cloud Printing, or manufacturer apps, you can print effortlessly from anywhere. Make sure your printer and phone are connected to the same WiFi network for a smooth experience.
For more troubleshooting and printer-related guides, visit PrinterNotWorking