Major printer brands provide free phone apps for printing photos, documents, PDFs, websites, and scans without using a computer. The setup pattern is the same: install the app, connect to the printer on Wi-Fi, choose the file, adjust settings, and print.
Does this affect you?
Use this if you want to print directly from iPhone or Android with HP, Canon, or Epson printer apps, or if built-in phone printing is not enough.
Print using HP Smart
Use this for HP OfficeJet, ENVY, DeskJet, and LaserJet models connected to Wi-Fi.
- Install HP Smart from the App Store or Google Play.
- Open it and sign in or continue without an account if basic printing is offered.
- Make sure phone and printer are on the same Wi-Fi, then add the printer.
- Tap Print, choose a photo, document, or website, adjust settings, and print.
Print using Canon PRINT
Use this for Canon PIXMA, MAXIFY, imageCLASS, and SELPHY models supported by the app.
- Install Canon PRINT or the Canon app version listed for your printer type.
- Open the app and select the Canon printer it finds on the same Wi-Fi.
- Choose Photo Print, Document Print, or Cloud Print.
- Select the file, adjust paper and layout, then tap the print icon.
Print using Epson Smart Panel
Use this for many Epson EcoTank, WorkForce, and Expression printers.
- Install Epson Smart Panel from the App Store or Google Play.
- Open it and let it find the printer on Wi-Fi.
- Tap Print Photos or Print Documents and choose the item.
- Adjust paper size, layout, and quality, then print.
More control
iPhone AirPrint may need no app
If the printer supports AirPrint and is on the same Wi-Fi, tap Share > Print from many iPhone and iPad apps and select the printer directly.
Android has built-in printing too
Android includes Default Print Service and optional manufacturer plugins. Look under Connected devices > Printing if the app print option is missing.
Apps add useful extras
Manufacturer apps often add ink levels, scanning to phone, maintenance tools, cloud printing, and setup help beyond simple printing.
Sources
- HP Support – Print with the HP Smart App (2025)
- Canon Support – Using the Canon PRINT App (2025)
- Epson Support – Using the Epson Smart Panel App (2025)