Table of Contents
Printing from an iPad or iPhone without involving a Mac is possible using Apple’s wireless printing technology, AirPrint. AirPrint allows mobile devices to send print jobs through Wi-Fi to any AirPrint-ready printer. This article provides a comprehensive guide on how to print wirelessly from iOS devices to AirPrint and non-AirPrint printers, either through third-party apps or by adding AirPrint support to any printer.
Print from iPhone / iPad to an AirPrint printer
AirPrint supports a wide range of printers. To check the printer’s compatibility, refer to the list on Apple’s website or read the guide to the most suitable printers for iPhone or iPad for your needs.
Using AirPrint, iPhone or iPad users can print from any app that supports printing, by selecting the share button and choosing the device’s AirPrint-enabled printer. When correctly configured, these devices should connect automatically without any extra prompts.
Print an email or webpage with AirPrint
- Open the email or Safari app and find the page to print. Click the share button, which looks like a square with an arrow pointing out of it.
- Click the print option in the drop-down menu.
- Select the correct printer from the list of options.
- Adjust the settings and options based on the printer’s requirements.
- Click print.
Create (and print) a PDF from a webpage
- While on the website, click the share button, square with an arrow pointing out of it.
- Swipe the options at the bottom until the “Create PDF” option is visible. Tap it.
- Click the share button again and select print.
Printing this way is ideal as it takes away some of the unnecessary page furniture, making it easier to read and print.
Print from an iPhone to a non-AirPrint printer
For non-AirPrint printers, a simple solution is connecting the device to a Mac or PC and sharing the printer through AirPrint. This process requires an application installation that enables AirPrint from the iPad or iPhone. Several apps can be valuable, such as handyPrint, Printer Pro, and Printopia, among others.
Using this method, an iOS device can print wirelessly all over the house, but it still requires the Mac or PC to be turned on.
How to add AirPrint support to any printer
Any printer can become an AirPrint printer by connecting devices such as the Lantronix xPrintServer, enabling AirPrint printing from any iPhone or iPad to any printer. This method also requires a network connection, and the printer’s documentation should be consulted to see if it can print by email. If not, it is worth checking the iOS App Store to find customized apps for that specific printer.
FAQs
How to print from an iPhone without AirPrint?
Non-AirPrint printers can still print wirelessly using a Mac or PC. Connect the printer to the device and install a third-party app such as Printer Pro, Printopia, handyPrint, among others. This solution enables AirPrint to print directly from the iPhone or iPad to the printer.
What printers work with an iPad?
iPad printers have expanded over the years, but it is highly recommended to check the printer’s manufacturers’ websites to ensure compatibility with the iPad. However, most printers manufactured in the last five years should work with an iPad.