Cannot use printer without software to connect

[Bunnies-Lambs_]

I cannot get this cheap HP paired without software!

[Dragon-Fur]

@Bunnies-Lambs_ 

Welcome to the HP Community --

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@Bunnies-Lambs_ wrote:

I cannot get this cheap HP paired without software!

Tag:  iOS

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Cheap (Inexpensive / Entry Level) or otherwise, most printers require some kind of print / scan application to work with iOS.

Should you not want (or cannot) make use of the HP App, consider trying AirPrint.

AirPrint is built into your iOS --

While not quite as versatile (feature packed) as the HP app, Airprint is stable and provides standard print service for supported printer models on supported versions of iOS.

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AirPrint for iOS

HP Document

 HP printer setup (Apple AirPrint for iPhone, iPad)

and

From Apple

 About AirPrint 

Excerpted

How to use AirPrint

AirPrint is a technology built into most popular printer models, including the printers and print servers listed here. To use AirPrint, you don't need to install an app, additional drivers, or other software. 

 Use AirPrint to print from your iPhone or iPad

 How to print from your Mac
 How to print from your iPhone or iPad

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 Connect an AirPrint printer to a Wi-Fi network

 Apple - Recommended settings for Wi-Fi routers and access points

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What else?

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HP App (Mobile) >>> Download / Install - How-to, FAQ, Troubleshooting

                                 << Important -- Fall 2025 >>

HP has replaced the HP Smart Mobile application with the HP App.

The HP App is available at the App Store for your mobile device.

 HP printer setup (HP app)

Read the FAQs

For example: 

What are the HP app requirements?

And / or

Why do I need to sign in or create an account to use the HP app?

And / or

Why can't I connect my wireless printer or print over the network?

>>> Terms of Use >>>  HP App - Terms of Service

Reminders -- Initial Connection

• Your Mobile device (tablet, phone) must be on the same network as the printer.
• On that mobile device, Location Services and Bluetooth should both be switched ON

-- Be Aware –

Any HP application you install should be sourced from “HP”.

What?  Fakes have been discovered on at least one Mobile App Store –

Check who is providing the application >> “HP Inc.”

If you can’t tell, ask or use the Homepage method (if using Windows) to download and install the HP Smart application.

 HP Support Official Channel – HP Support Video Gallery

 HP Support Videos – HP App - What happened to HP Smart? | Use the new HP app 

 10 chapters

 Expand the area that describes the application – read the first sentences and click “More”

 Samples

 Print, Scan, Fax, Save – Minute 1:15

 Account Information and Print Dashboard – Minute 1:30

 Get Help – Minute 2:02

 Select “Use AI Search” – Minute 2:08

 EWS (Embedded Web Server) – Minute 2:21 > Printer Settings > View all > Advanced (opens EWS)

 Reminders

• If asked enter the printer’s PIN number – The default PIN might be located on the back or inside the printer (ink access area).

 And

• “Advanced” / EWS can also be opened using your Browser:   Open your Browser > Type / enter the Printer IP address into URL / Address bar

And

 HP Support Videos – HP App - Scan using the HP App | HP printers | HP Support

And

 HP Support Videos – HP App - Fix unavailable features in the HP app | HP printers | HP Support

 HP Support Videos – HP App - Fix a “Scanning Unavailable” error in the HP app | HP printers | HP Sup...

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Message Content References

Take advantage of the extensive HP Video collection !

Technology Tips - Video Gallery from our HP Expert greenturtle

 Technology Tips– YouTube Video Help for Printers

 HP Support Official Channel – HP Support Video Gallery

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References / Resources

HP Printer Home Page - References and Resources

Learn about your Printer - Solve Problems

“Things that are your printer”

When the website support page opens, Select (as available) a Category > Topic > Subtopic

NOTE: Content depends on device type and Operating System

Categories: Warranty Check, Alerts, Troubleshooting, Ink & Paper, HP Software & Drivers / Firmware Updates, Setup & User Guides, Product Specifications, Account & Registration, Warranty & Repair

Open 

 Product Home - Printers

 Enter the device type and model name of your HP product

OR

 Select a saved product from HP Account Dashboard

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Real people who own, use, and support HP devices.

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Question / Concern Answered, Click my Post "Accept as Solution"