How to print from an Android phone
Short answer: connect your phone and printer to the same Wi-Fi, open the file, tap ⋮ or Share, then Print, choose your printer and tap the print button. Android has a built-in print service for most Wi-Fi printers; menu names vary slightly between Samsung, Google Pixel and other phones.
How to print from an Android phone
- Join the same Wi-Fi. Connect your phone to the same Wi-Fi network as your printer.
- Check the print service. Open Settings and search for "Printing". Make sure the Default Print Service or your printer brand's plug-in is turned on.
- Open what you want to print. Open the document, photo or web page, tap the menu (⋮) or Share, then tap Print.
- Select your printer. Tap the printer name at the top and choose your printer. If you see "Select a printer", tap All printers.
- Print. Set copies, paper size and colour, then tap the print button.
Built-in service, plug-in or app?
| Option | Good for | Limits |
|---|---|---|
| Default Print Service | Quick prints of photos, PDFs and web pages | Not every app has a Print option |
| Printer brand plug-in (HP, Canon, Epson, Brother) | Printer-specific settings | One plug-in per brand |
| Smart Printer | Office files, scanning and copying, print preview in one app | Advanced features need Pro |
Download on the App StoreSmart Printer: Scan Master Pro · iPhone & iPad
Get it on Google PlayPrinter Smart: Scan, Print PDF · Android
Troubleshooting
- Printer not found: check both devices are on the same Wi-Fi band and network, then restart the printer and router.
- No Print option in an app: share the file to an app that can print, such as Smart Printer, Google Drive or your gallery app.
- Jobs stuck in the queue: pull down the notification shade, open the print job and cancel it, then try again.
- Blank or garbled pages: convert the file to PDF first, then print the PDF.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to install anything to print from Android?
Most recent Android phones include a Default Print Service that finds common Wi-Fi printers. If yours isn't found, install your printer brand's print plug-in from Google Play or use a printing app.
Can I print from Android to a USB printer?
Printing over Wi-Fi is the simple route. Some printers can connect via a USB OTG cable, but support depends on the phone and printer.