In today’s mobile-first world, the ability to print directly from your iPhone can save time and make everyday tasks more efficient. Whether you need to print travel tickets, shipping labels, or business documents, Apple’s iOS makes it simple to connect to compatible printers.
This guide will walk you through the step-by-step process of adding a printer to your iPhone using Apple AirPrint and alternative methods — with tips tailored for UK home and office users.
1. Why Connect a Printer to Your iPhone?
From students to small businesses, wireless printing from an iPhone is becoming increasingly popular in the UK for:
- Printing invoices or receipts directly from email.
- Producing event tickets without needing a PC.
- Quickly printing photos from your camera roll.
- Remote work convenience — no need to transfer files.
2. The Easiest Method: Using Apple AirPrint
Apple AirPrint is built into all modern iPhones and many printer models from brands like Epson, HP, Canon, and Brother.
AirPrint Benefits
- No need to install additional apps or drivers.
- Works seamlessly with iOS devices.
- Supports a wide range of print options (paper size, colour/B&W, copies).
3. Steps to Add a Printer to Your iPhone Using AirPrint
Follow these steps to connect your iPhone to an AirPrint-enabled printer:
Step 1: Check AirPrint Compatibility
- Most printers released in the last 5–7 years support AirPrint.
- Visit Apple’s AirPrint printer list (UK Apple Support) to confirm your model.
Step 2: Connect the Printer to Your Wi-Fi Network
- Use your printer’s control panel or mobile app (e.g., Epson iPrint, HP Smart) to connect it to the same Wi-Fi network as your iPhone.
Step 3: Open the File You Want to Print
- This could be an email, photo, document, or webpage.
Step 4: Access the Print Menu
- Tap the Share icon (box with an arrow) → Print.
Step 5: Select Your Printer
- Your iPhone will search for available AirPrint printers on the network.
- Select your printer from the list.
Step 6: Adjust Print Settings
- Choose the number of copies, page range, paper size, and colour preferences.
Step 7: Print
- Tap Print and your job will be sent wirelessly.
4. Adding a Printer Without AirPrint
Not all printers support AirPrint. In the UK, many users still have older models without built-in iOS printing support — but you can still connect them.
Option 1: Manufacturer’s App
Most major brands have free iOS apps:
- Epson iPrint – for Epson printers.
- HP Smart – for HP printers.
- Canon PRINT Inkjet/SELPHY – for Canon printers.
- Brother iPrint&Scan – for Brother printers.
Steps:
- Download the app from the App Store.
- Connect your printer to Wi-Fi.
- Open the app and follow the pairing instructions.
Option 2: Use Email Printing
Some printers (like HP ePrint) provide an email address.
Send the document/photo as an email attachment to that address, and the printer will automatically print it.
Option 3: Printing via Computer Bridge
If your printer is USB-only:
- Connect it to a Mac or Windows PC on your network.
- Share the printer via System Preferences (Mac) or Control Panel (Windows).
- Use a third-party app like Printer Pro to print from your iPhone.
5. Troubleshooting Printer Connection Issues
If your iPhone doesn’t detect the printer:
- Ensure both devices are on the same Wi-Fi network.
- Restart your router, printer, and iPhone.
- Update your printer’s firmware via the manufacturer’s website.
- Disable VPNs on your iPhone (they can block local device detection).
6. Security Tips for Wireless Printing in the UK
- Change your Wi-Fi password regularly.
- Disable printer Wi-Fi Direct if you don’t use it.
- Use a static IP for the printer in office environments to avoid connection drops.
Frequently Asked Questions (AEO-Optimised)
Q1: How do I know if my printer supports AirPrint?
Check Apple’s AirPrint compatibility list or your printer’s manual.
Q2: Can I connect my iPhone to a printer with a cable?
Not directly — iPhones don’t have native USB printing support, but some apps work with USB-connected printers via a Mac/PC.
Q3: What’s the best free app for printing from an iPhone?
If your printer doesn’t support AirPrint, use the manufacturer’s official app (HP Smart, Epson iPrint, Canon PRINT).
Q4: Why can’t my iPhone find my printer?
Most often, the printer and iPhone are on different networks or the printer’s Wi-Fi isn’t connected.
Q5: Can I print in black and white from my iPhone?
Yes — you can select black & white printing in the print settings before confirming.
Conclusion
Adding a printer to your iPhone in the UK is quick and straightforward — especially with AirPrint-enabled models. Even without AirPrint, there are several alternative methods to get you printing in minutes.
For the best results, keep your printer firmware updated and ensure both devices are on the same network.