Adding a printer to your iPhone 12 is a breeze once you know the right steps. With the help of Apple’s AirPrint feature, you can print documents, photos, and emails wirelessly without the need for additional software. All you need is an AirPrint-compatible printer and your iPhone 12 connected to the same Wi-Fi network. Ready to get started? Let’s dive in!
Step by Step Tutorial: Adding a Printer to iPhone 12
Before we jump into the steps, let’s understand what we’ll achieve through this process. By the end, you’ll have your iPhone 12 ready to send print jobs to your AirPrint-compatible printer over your Wi-Fi network.
Step 1: Check your printer’s compatibility
Make sure your printer supports AirPrint.
Not all printers support AirPrint, so you’ll need to check if yours does. You can find this information in your printer’s manual or by looking up the model online. If it’s compatible, you’re good to go.
Step 2: Connect your printer to Wi-Fi
Ensure your printer is connected to the Wi-Fi network.
To use AirPrint, your printer needs to be on the same Wi-Fi network as your iPhone 12. If it’s not already connected, refer to your printer’s manual for instructions on how to connect it to Wi-Fi.
Step 3: Open the app you want to print from
Select the app and the document or image you wish to print.
AirPrint works with most native Apple apps and many third-party apps. Open the app that contains the file you want to print. This could be Photos, Mail, Safari, or any other app that supports printing.
Step 4: Tap the share icon
Look for the share icon (a square with an upward arrow) and tap it.
The share icon is your gateway to many actions on your iPhone, including printing. Once you tap it, a menu with various options will appear.
Step 5: Select ‘Print’
Choose the ‘Print’ option from the share menu.
Scroll through the options until you see ‘Print.’ Tap on it to proceed to the printer options.
Step 6: Choose your printer
Select your AirPrint-compatible printer from the list.
Your iPhone will search for and list all available AirPrint-compatible printers on your Wi-Fi network. Select the one you want to use.
Step 7: Set the print options
Adjust the number of copies or other settings if necessary.
Before you print, you may want to adjust settings like the number of copies, color options, or page range. Make your selections as needed.
Step 8: Tap ‘Print’
Send your document or image to the printer by tapping ‘Print.’
Once you’re happy with your settings, go ahead and send the job to the printer. Your document or image will start printing shortly.
After completing these steps, your iPhone 12 will communicate with your printer and start the print job. You should hear your printer activating and beginning to process the document or image.
Tips for Adding a Printer to iPhone 12
- Ensure your iPhone and printer are updated to the latest software version for the best compatibility.
- If your printer doesn’t support AirPrint, check if the manufacturer offers an app for printing from your iPhone.
- Keep your printer and iPhone close to your Wi-Fi router for a stronger connection.
- If you encounter any issues, restarting both your iPhone and printer can often solve connectivity problems.
- For added security, make sure your Wi-Fi network is password-protected when printing wirelessly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use any printer with my iPhone 12?
No, you need an AirPrint-compatible printer to print directly from your iPhone 12.
Do I need to install any apps to print from my iPhone 12?
No, with AirPrint, you don’t need any additional apps to print from your iPhone 12.
Can I print from any app on my iPhone 12?
AirPrint works with most native Apple apps and many third-party apps. If the app has a share feature, it likely supports AirPrint.
How do I know if my printer is AirPrint-compatible?
You can check your printer’s manual, the manufacturer’s website, or look for the AirPrint logo on the printer.
What if my printer isn’t AirPrint-compatible?
You may still be able to print by using the manufacturer’s app or other third-party printing apps available on the App Store.
Summary
- Check printer compatibility with AirPrint.
- Connect your printer to the same Wi-Fi network as your iPhone 12.
- Open the app with the document or image to print.
- Tap the share icon.
- Select ‘Print’ from the share menu.
- Choose your printer from the list.
- Adjust print settings if needed.
- Tap ‘Print’ to start the print job.
Conclusion
Printing from your iPhone 12 couldn’t be simpler, thanks to Apple’s AirPrint technology. By following the steps laid out in this article, you can easily connect your iPhone 12 to an AirPrint-compatible printer and start printing your documents and photos wirelessly. Remember to check for compatibility and ensure that your devices are on the same Wi-Fi network for a smooth printing experience. Whether you’re printing out an important email, a cherished photo, or a travel boarding pass, the convenience of wireless printing from your iPhone 12 is something you’ll appreciate time and time again. So go ahead, give it a try, and enjoy the simplicity and convenience of printing right from your iPhone 12!
Matthew Burleigh has been writing tech tutorials since 2008. His writing has appeared on dozens of different websites and been read over 50 million times.
After receiving his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Computer Science he spent several years working in IT management for small businesses. However, he now works full time writing content online and creating websites.
His main writing topics include iPhones, Microsoft Office, Google Apps, Android, and Photoshop, but he has also written about many other tech topics as well.