Printer Driver Stuck

[HardyLass]

I downloaded a new driver as my printer wouldn't print. I can't print a PDF via Air Print from my mac, I can't even select the "PRINT" button on either my I-Phone or my Mac laptop. The driver is stuck in Device Discovery mode for over 20 minutes and nothing is changing or updating. Please help!

[VikramTheGreat]

Hi @HardyLass,

Welcome to the HP Support Community.
 

Thank you for posting your query. I will be glad to help you.

It sounds like the printer driver installation didn’t complete properly, and the printer is stuck in Device Discovery mode, which prevents AirPrint and HP Smart from working. This is a common issue when the printer and Mac/iPhone aren’t fully paired or the HP app is waiting for a network handshake.

Step 1: Reset Printer Network Settings

• On the printer control panel, go to Wireless Settings → Restore Network Defaults.
• Power cycle the printer (turn it off, wait 30 seconds, turn it back on).

Step 2: Remove Old Printer Drivers

• On your Mac: 
  • Go to System Settings → Printers & Scanners.
  • Select your HP printer → click Remove (-).
• Delete any HP-related files from /Library/Printers if present.

Step 3: Reinstall HP App

• Download the latest HP app for macOS:
  👉 HP App – For HP Printers, Laptops, and Tech Accessories | HP® Official Site
• Open HP Smart → Add Printer → follow the on-screen steps to reconnect via Wi-Fi.

Step 4: Enable AirPrint

• Once the printer is added in HP app, check Printers & Scanners on Mac: 
  • Ensure the printer shows as AirPrint or Secure AirPrint.
• On iPhone, open Settings → Wi-Fi, confirm the printer is on the same network.

Step 5: Test with PDF

• Open a PDF in Preview on Mac → File → Print.
• If the Print button is still greyed out, restart the Mac and try again.

I hope this helps.

Take care and have an amazing day!
 

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Regards,

VikramTheGreat