How to print from an iPhone or iPad
Short answer: connect your iPhone and printer to the same Wi-Fi, open what you want to print, tap Share then Print, pick your printer and tap Print. This uses AirPrint, which is built into every iPhone and iPad and supported by most wireless printers.
How to print from an iPhone with AirPrint
- Join the same Wi-Fi. Connect your iPhone to the same Wi-Fi network as your printer.
- Open the share menu. In the app with your document, photo or web page, tap the Share button (the square with an arrow) or the More (…) button.
- Tap Print. Scroll down the list of actions and tap Print.
- Pick your printer. Tap Printer and choose your printer from the list.
- Choose options and print. Set copies, page range and other options, then tap Print.
To check or cancel a print job, open the App Switcher while it prints and tap Print Centre.
When a printing app helps
AirPrint is enough for a photo or a web page. A dedicated app like Smart Printer is quicker when you need to:
- print Word, Excel or PowerPoint files and PDFs from Dropbox or iCloud Drive in one place;
- scan a paper document and print a copy, using your phone as a copier;
- preview a PDF and set paper size, orientation and copies before printing;
- print IDs, receipts or business cards scanned with the camera.
Printer not showing up?
- Same network. Your iPhone must be on the same Wi-Fi as the printer, not a guest network or a mobile hotspot.
- AirPrint support. Check the printer's box or manual for "AirPrint" or "Works with Apple". Older or USB-only printers don't support it.
- Restart. Turn the printer, the router and your iPhone off and on again.
- Firmware. Update the printer's firmware using the manufacturer's app.
- Wake it up. Some printers drop off Wi-Fi in sleep mode; press a button on the printer and try again.
For model-specific help, see the printer guides on PrinterArchive.net.
Frequently asked questions
Can I print from my iPhone without Wi-Fi?
AirPrint needs the iPhone and printer on the same network. Some printers create their own direct Wi-Fi network (often called Wi-Fi Direct) that you can join from Settings › Wi-Fi to print without a router.
Why is there no Print option in the share menu?
Some apps don't offer printing. Save the file to the Files app or open it in an app like Smart Printer, then print from there.
Can I print from an iPhone to a printer that doesn't support AirPrint?
Often yes, through the printer manufacturer's own app, which uses its own connection method. Check the manufacturer's website for an iPhone app for your model.