Overview
- Printing from your iPhone to a Brother printer can be a breeze if your printer supports Apple’s AirPrint technology.
- This guide will walk you through the different methods you can use to print from your iPhone to a Brother printer without relying on AirPrint.
- If your Brother printer is connected to your computer, you can use your computer as a bridge to print from your iPhone.
Printing from your iPhone to a Brother printer can be a breeze if your printer supports Apple‘s AirPrint technology. But what if your printer doesn‘t? Don’t worry, there are still ways to connect and print, even without AirPrint. This guide will walk you through the different methods you can use to print from your iPhone to a Brother printer without relying on AirPrint.
Understanding the Limitations of AirPrint
Before we dive into the alternative solutions, let’s quickly understand why AirPrint might not be available for your Brother printer.
- Older Printer Models: Some older Brother printer models were released before AirPrint became a standard feature.
- Specific Printer Models: Even within the newer models, certain Brother printers might not have built-in AirPrint support.
- Compatibility Issues: Occasionally, there may be compatibility issues between specific iPhone models and older Brother printers.
Method 1: Using the Brother iPrint&Scan App
The Brother iPrint&Scan app is a powerful and versatile solution for printing and scanning from your iPhone. This app works with a wide range of Brother printers, regardless of whether they support AirPrint or not.
Here’s how to use the Brother iPrint&Scan app:
1. Download the app: Search for “Brother iPrint&Scan” in the App Store and download the app.
2. Connect your printer: The app will guide you through connecting your printer to your iPhone. This typically involves connecting to your printer’s Wi-Fi network or using a USB cable.
3. Select your document: Choose the document you want to print from your iPhone’s photo library, email, or other apps.
4. Choose your printer settings: Select the printer you want to use and adjust settings like paper size, print quality, and number of copies.
5. Start printing: Tap the “Print” button, and your document will be sent to your Brother printer.
Method 2: Printing Through a Computer
If your Brother printer is connected to your computer, you can use your computer as a bridge to print from your iPhone. This method requires a few additional steps, but it’s a reliable option if you don’t want to download any third-party apps.
Here’s how to print through your computer:
1. Connect your printer: Connect your Brother printer to your computer using a USB cable or Wi-Fi.
2. Enable printer sharing: On your computer, enable printer sharing so your iPhone can access it.
3. Connect your iPhone to the same network: Ensure your iPhone and computer are connected to the same Wi-Fi network.
4. Print from your iPhone: Open the document you want to print, tap the “Share” button, and choose “Print.”
5. Select your printer: Your computer’s shared printer should appear in the list of available printers. Select it and adjust any printing settings.
6. Start printing: Tap the “Print” button to send your document to your Brother printer.
Method 3: Using Google Cloud Print
Google Cloud Print offers a cloud-based printing solution that can connect your iPhone to your Brother printer, even if it doesn’t have AirPrint.
Here’s how to use Google Cloud Print:
1. Set up Google Cloud Print: On your computer, install and set up the Google Cloud Print app.
2. Add your printer: Add your Brother printer to your Google Cloud Print account.
3. Connect your iPhone: On your iPhone, open the document you want to print and tap the “Share” button.
4. Select Google Cloud Print: Choose “Google Cloud Print” from the list of sharing options.
5. Choose your printer: Select your Brother printer from the list of available printers.
6. Start printing: Tap the “Print” button to send your document to your Brother printer.
Method 4: Using a Third-Party Printing App
There are several third-party printing apps available in the App Store that can connect your iPhone to your Brother printer without AirPrint. These apps typically offer additional features like document editing, cloud storage integration, and more.
Here are some popular third-party printing apps:
- Printer Pro: Printer Pro is a versatile printing app that supports a wide range of printers, including Brother models. It allows you to print documents, photos, web pages, and more.
- HP Smart: While primarily designed for HP printers, the HP Smart app can also connect to Brother printers and offers a user-friendly interface for printing and scanning.
- PrintHand: PrintHand is a popular printing app that offers a wide range of printing options, including support for Brother printers.
Method 5: Using a Wireless Network Adapter
If your Brother printer doesn’t have built-in Wi-Fi connectivity, you can use a wireless network adapter to connect it to your wireless network. This allows you to print from your iPhone using any of the methods mentioned above.
Here’s how to use a wireless network adapter:
1. Connect the adapter: Connect the wireless network adapter to your Brother printer‘s USB port.
2. Configure the adapter: Follow the instructions provided with the adapter to connect it to your wireless network.
3. Print from your iPhone: Use any of the methods mentioned above to print from your iPhone to your Brother printer.
Choosing the Right Method for You
The best method for printing from your iPhone to your Brother printer without AirPrint depends on your specific needs and preferences.
- Simplicity: If you want the easiest solution, the Brother iPrint&Scan app is a great choice.
- Flexibility: If you need to print from multiple devices or use cloud storage, Google Cloud Print is a good option.
- Advanced features: If you need additional features like document editing or cloud integration, a third-party printing app might be the best choice.
Beyond Printing: Exploring Other Features
While printing is a primary function, many Brother printers offer additional features that can be accessed from your iPhone. These features can enhance your productivity and creativity.
- Scanning: Most Brother printers allow you to scan documents directly to your iPhone using the Brother iPrint&Scan app or other compatible apps.
- Faxing: Some Brother printers also support faxing, enabling you to send faxes directly from your iPhone.
- Remote Monitoring: Many Brother printers can be monitored remotely from your iPhone, allowing you to check ink levels, manage settings, and troubleshoot issues.
Embrace the Power of Connectivity
Printing from your iPhone to a Brother printer without AirPrint is easier than you might think. By exploring the different methods and choosing the one that best suits your needs, you can unlock the full potential of your Brother printer and enjoy seamless connectivity between your iPhone and your printer.
What You Need to Learn
Q: Can I print from my iPhone to a Brother printer without an internet connection?
A: You can print without an internet connection if your iPhone and printer are connected to the same Wi-Fi network or if you’re using a USB cable connection.
Q: Can I print to my Brother printer using a third-party app even if it supports AirPrint?
A: Yes, you can use a third-party app even if your printer supports AirPrint. Some apps offer additional features or compatibility with older iPhone models.
Q: What should I do if I’m having trouble connecting my iPhone to my Brother printer?
A: If you’re experiencing connection issues, check your network connection, ensure your printer is turned on and connected to the same Wi-Fi network as your iPhone, and restart both your iPhone and printer. If the issue persists, consult the Brother printer‘s user manual or contact Brother support for assistance.
Q: Is it possible to print using a USB cable without using AirPrint?
A: Yes, you can print using a USB cable connection. However, you’ll need to use a third-party printing app that supports USB printing or print through your computer.
Q: What are the benefits of using a third-party printing app?
A: Third-party printing apps can offer additional features like document editing, cloud storage integration, and support for a wider range of printers. They can also provide a more user-friendly interface for printing.