Cannot add printer: Failure to recognise location during set up

[Oftenfrazzled]

i had to remove and reinstall various apps, drivers and devices recently and one of these was HP smart. Now it is reinstalled (and uninstalled multiple times, including repair/reset) but it still stalls at the "add printer" stage of wifi setup, claiming it needs access to location. All location permissions are granted. What do I do? My printer does not have a socket for any cables

[Hawks_Eye]

Hi @Oftenfrazzled 

Welcome to the HP Support Community! We're here to help you get back up and running.

If you're experiencing issues with the HP Smart app stalling during the "add printer" stage, despite granting location permissions.

Let’s break this down and get your HP ENVY 6420e back online without relying on cables.

HP Smart uses Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) and location services to detect nearby printers. Even if permissions are granted, Windows 11 sometimes blocks location access at the system level or fails to register the app correctly after a reinstall.

1. Double-Check Location Settings (System Level)

• Go to Settings > Privacy & Security > Location.
• Make sure:
  • Location Services is turned ON.
  • HP Smart is listed under “Let apps access your location” and is enabled.
  • Scroll down to Default Location and set one manually.

 

2. Enable Bluetooth (Even If You Don’t Use It)

• HP Smart uses BLE to detect printers—even if your printer doesn’t use Bluetooth.
• Go to Settings > Bluetooth & Devices and turn Bluetooth ON.
• Restart HP Smart and try adding the printer again.

 

3. Run HP Smart as Administrator

• Right-click the HP Smart shortcut > Properties > Compatibility tab.
• Check Run this program as administrator.
• Apply and relaunch the app.

 

4. Reset HP Smart App Permissions

• Go to Settings > Apps > Installed Apps > HP Smart.
• Click Advanced Options.
• Scroll to Reset and click Repair, then Reset.
• Reopen the app and re-grant location permissions when prompted.

 

5. Try Adding the Printer via Windows First

• Go to Settings > Bluetooth & Devices > Printers & Scanners > Add Device.
• If your printer appears, add it here first.
• Then open HP Smart—it may detect the printer automatically.

If the issue persists:

• Try installing HP Smart from the Microsoft Store (not from HP’s website).
• Create a new local Windows user account and install HP Smart there—some users report success with a clean profile.

Let me know how far you get—I’ll stick with you until it’s printing like a charm.

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Take care, and have an amazing day!

Regards, 

Hawks_Eye