Printing documents or photos directly from your iPhone to your HP printer should be a seamless process, thanks to Apple’s AirPrint technology. However, users sometimes encounter difficulties, finding that the expected print options are missing or that they are being prompted to use the HP Smart App instead. This guide explores common issues and solutions to help you print effortlessly from your iPhone to your HP printer.
One user, experiencing this very problem with their HP OfficeJet Pro 8720, initially found themselves only able to print using the HP Smart App. They questioned whether this was the only method available on iOS, and sought to bypass the app and utilize AirPrint effectively.
Understanding AirPrint and Compatibility
AirPrint is Apple’s technology that allows for driverless printing over a wireless network. Most modern HP printers are compatible with AirPrint, including the HP OfficeJet Pro 8720. This compatibility means you should be able to print directly from your iPhone without needing to install additional apps or drivers, in most cases.
Troubleshooting Steps for iPhone to HP Printer Printing Issues
If you’re facing difficulties printing from your iPhone to your HP printer, consider these troubleshooting steps:
1. Verify Printer and iPhone are on the Same Wi-Fi Network
Ensure both your HP printer and iPhone are connected to the same Wi-Fi network. This is crucial for AirPrint to function correctly. Sometimes devices on different networks or guest networks will not be able to discover each other for printing.
2. Check AirPrint Compatibility and Firmware
While most recent HP OfficeJet Pro printers support AirPrint, it’s worth double-checking your specific model’s specifications on HP’s website. Outdated printer firmware can also cause compatibility issues. Updating your HP printer’s firmware to the latest version is recommended. You can usually do this through the printer’s embedded web server interface.
HP printer embedded web server interface showing firmware update section, relevant to troubleshooting AirPrint issues.
To access the embedded web server, you’ll need to find your printer’s IP address, usually available through the printer’s network settings menu. Once you have the IP address, enter it into a web browser on your computer or iPhone to access the printer’s settings.
3. Locate the Print Option in iOS Share Menu
A common point of confusion is finding the AirPrint option on iPhones. The print function is typically located within the Share menu of apps that support printing.
To access it:
- Open the document, photo, or webpage you want to print.
- Tap the Share icon (usually a square with an arrow pointing upwards).
- Scroll down through the share options.
- Look for Print.
Some users have reported that after iOS updates, the Print option can sometimes appear lower down in the Share menu than expected, even requiring scrolling to see it.
iPhone share sheet menu showing the print option located below other submenus, resolving the issue of missing print functionality.
4. Restart Devices
If you are still unable to see the print option, restarting both your iPhone and HP printer can often resolve temporary network glitches or software conflicts. Turn off both devices, wait for a few seconds, and then turn them back on.
5. Consider Using HP Smart App (If AirPrint Still Fails)
If AirPrint continues to be problematic, the HP Smart App is a viable alternative. While the goal is often to print directly without extra apps, HP Smart can provide a reliable printing solution and may offer additional print options not available through AirPrint. However, for basic printing functionality, AirPrint should ideally work seamlessly.
Conclusion
Printing from your iPhone to your HP printer should be straightforward with AirPrint. By ensuring both devices are on the same Wi-Fi network, your printer firmware is up-to-date, and by locating the Print option within the iOS Share menu (sometimes hidden lower down), you can usually resolve most printing issues. If problems persist, systematically going through these troubleshooting steps will help you pinpoint and address the root cause, enabling you to print from your iPhone to your HP printer with ease.
