Printing from an iPhone is a common need for many users, whether it’s for printing photos, documents, or other materials. While AirPrint is the most popular method for wireless printing from an iPhone, not all printers support this feature. Fortunately, there are several alternative methods to print from your iPhone without relying on AirPrint. In this article, we’ll explore these options in detail.
1. Using Printer Manufacturer Apps
Many printer manufacturers offer their own dedicated apps that allow you to print directly from your iPhone. These apps often support a wider range of printers, even those that do not have AirPrint capabilities. Here are some popular manufacturer apps:
- HP Smart: For HP printers, the HP Smart app allows users to print, scan, and manage printer settings directly from their iPhones.
- Epson iPrint: This app enables Epson printer users to print photos and documents wirelessly. It also includes additional features like scanning and accessing files from cloud services.
- Canon PRINT: Canon’s app supports printing from Canon printers, allowing you to print photos, documents, and even web pages.
To use these apps, simply download the app from the App Store, connect your iPhone and printer to the same Wi-Fi network, and follow the app’s instructions to print.
2. Using Google Cloud Print
Although Google Cloud Print has been deprecated since December 2020, many users still rely on its features, especially if they have compatible printers. If your printer supports Google Cloud Print, you can set it up to allow printing from your iPhone through Google services.
Here’s how to do it:
- Make sure your printer is set up with Google Cloud Print.
- On your iPhone, open the document or photo you want to print.
- Tap the share icon and select “Print” or find the “Print” option in the app you’re using.
- Choose “Select Printer” and pick your Google Cloud Printer.
- Adjust your print settings and tap “Print.”
Note: Since Google Cloud Print is no longer available, consider checking for alternative solutions or services that might suit your printing needs.
3. Using Email Printing
Some printers have an email address associated with them, allowing you to send documents or photos directly to the printer via email. This is particularly useful for remote printing. To use this feature:
- Find the email address for your printer (often provided by the manufacturer).
- Open the document or photo you want to print on your iPhone.
- Share it via email, entering your printer’s email address as the recipient.
- Send the email, and your printer should automatically print the document.
Make sure to check your printer’s settings to ensure email printing is enabled.
4. Using Third-Party Printing Apps
Several third-party apps can facilitate printing from an iPhone without AirPrint. Apps like Printer Pro allow users to print to any printer connected to the same network or even over the internet. Here’s how to use it:
- Download Printer Pro from the App Store.
- Open the app and add your printer.
- Choose the document or photo you wish to print.
- Adjust your print settings, then tap “Print.”
5. Using USB Connection
If you have a compatible USB cable and adapter, you can connect your iPhone directly to your printer. This method requires a printer with a USB port and may not be as convenient as wireless options, but it’s effective for direct printing.
- Use a USB cable to connect your iPhone to the printer via a USB adapter (Lightning to USB).
- On your iPhone, open the document you wish to print and look for the print option.
- Select your printer and tap “Print.”
Conclusion
While AirPrint is a convenient way to print from an iPhone, there are several alternatives available. By utilizing printer manufacturer apps, email printing, third-party applications, or even direct USB connections, you can print your documents and photos seamlessly. Choose the method that works best for your printer and printing needs to ensure a smooth printing experience.