Modern mobile devices have long since ceased to be mere phones, becoming powerful work tools that require instant access to peripherals. The ability to print a document, photo, or ticket directly from a smartphone screen without using a computer has become a standard of convenience. For owners of Apple and Canon devices, this task is quite simple if you know the correct sequence of steps and understand how wireless communication between devices works.
Unlike older methods that required wires and complex driver setup, modern protocols allow for communication to be established in minutes. The key tools here are built-in technology. AirPrint and a branded application Canon PRINT Inkjet/SELPHYThe specific method you choose depends on your printer model, iOS version, and personal preferences for managing print tasks.
Before moving on to practical steps, it's important to ensure your equipment is ready for wireless operation. This applies not only to the printer's Wi-Fi module but also to the proper home network configuration. In this article, we'll cover all the connection details, from basic setup to troubleshooting common issues users encounter.
Checking compatibility and preparing equipment
The first step to wireless printing is verifying the technical capabilities of your equipment. Not all printer models Canon Support direct Wi-Fi connection, although most modern devices released after 2015 are equipped with this module. If your printer is a PIXMA, MAXIFY, or imageCLASS printer, the likelihood of having a wireless interface is extremely high.
Make sure the printer is turned on and within range of the router's signal. The range shouldn't exceed standard indoor Wi-Fi limits, typically 10-15 meters, without significant obstructions such as concrete walls. It's also critical that the iPhone and printer are on the same subnet, meaning they're connected to the same router.
Check for ink or toner, and for errors on the MFP display, such as paper jams or open covers. The system may not detect the device if it's in an error state or deep sleep state from which it can't wake up automatically. Updating the printer firmware through the device menu can also resolve hidden compatibility issues.
β οΈ Note: If your router supports split-band functionality (2.4GHz and 5GHz) with different network names, make sure both devices are connected to the same frequency, preferably 2.4GHz, as many printers cannot see 5GHz networks.
- π± Make sure Wi-Fi and Bluetooth are turned on on your iPhone (Bluetooth is often used for initial device discovery).
- π¨οΈ Check your printer model on the official Canon website to see if it supports AirPrint or Canon PRINT.
- π Make sure the printer is connected to the same Wi-Fi network you plan to connect your phone to.
- π Restart your router if your network is unstable or devices can't see each other.
Setting up a Wi-Fi connection on the printer itself
Before your iPhone can "see" your printer, it must be properly configured to work on your wireless network. There are several ways to do this, and the choice depends on whether your MFP has a display. If it does, the process is done through the device's menu; if not, you'll need to use buttons.
For models with a display, enter the settings menu and select "Device Settings" or "Wi-Fi." There, you should find "LAN Settings" or "Wireless." Select your home network from the list and enter the password. Once connected, the screen will typically display a Wi-Fi icon or the device's IP address.
If there's no display, use the WPS or push-button connection method. Press the Wi-Fi button on the printer panel; the indicator light will start blinking. Then press the "Black" or "Color" button (depending on the model), and then quickly press the Wi-Fi button again. The printer will enter network search mode or access point mode.
Sequence for Direct mode (without router):1. Press the Wi-Fi button.
2. Click the Direct Connection button (smartphone icon).
3. The power indicator flashes and then stays on.
4. On your iPhone, in the Wi-Fi settings, select the Canon_xx_xx network.
After setup, make sure the wireless indicator on the printer is solid and not blinking. Blinking usually indicates the connection is in progress or a connection error. A stable signal is essential for fast transfer of large files, such as high-resolution photos.
AirPrint method: printing without installing applications
Technology AirPrint β is Apple's native solution that allows you to print documents and photos directly from standard iOS apps without installing additional drivers or software. It's the most convenient method for one-time printing, as it doesn't require account registration or complex software configuration.
To use this method, open the document, photo, or webpage you want to print. Tap the Share button (square with an upward-facing arrow) or the menu icon (three dots). In the list of actions that appears, find and select "Print."
The system will automatically search for available printers on the network. If your Canon printer supports AirPrint and is configured correctly, it will appear in the "Printer" list. Select it, configure the number of copies, page range, and other settings, and then click "Print" in the upper right corner.
What should I do if AirPrint doesn't see my printer?
Make sure your iPhone's mobile data (4G/5G) is disabled while searching, as iOS sometimes prioritizes mobile data. Also, try temporarily turning Wi-Fi off and on again on your phone. Make sure "AP Client Isolation" is disabled on your router, which prevents devices on the network from seeing each other.
It's important to note that AirPrint doesn't support all printer features. For example, duplex printing or a selectable paper tray may not be available through the standard iOS interface. For more advanced features, it's best to use the manufacturer's dedicated app.
| Function | AirPrint | Canon PRINT App |
|---|---|---|
| Printing documents | Supported | Supported |
| Photo printing | Basic | Extended (editor) |
| Scanning | Not supported | Supported |
| Ink monitoring | No | Eat |
Using the Canon PRINT Inkjet/SELPHY app
For users who require full control over the printing process, including scanning and monitoring of consumables, the official app will be an indispensable tool. Canon PRINTThis software provides access to features that are hidden when using the standard AirPrint protocol.
Download and install the app from the App Store. After launching, the program will prompt you to add a printer. Tap the "+" or "Add Printer" icon. The app will request permission to use the local networkβthis is critical, as it's essential for device discovery.
The app will automatically search for printers on the network. If a device is found, follow the on-screen instructions to complete the pairing. You'll be able to print photos with effects, create collages, scan documents directly to PDF or JPEG, and send them to email or the cloud.
βοΈ Canon PRINT Setup
β οΈ Note: When you first launch the app, you may be prompted to update your printer's firmware. We recommend agreeing to this and waiting for the process to complete without turning off the device, as this improves the stability of the Wi-Fi connection.
The app's interface allows you to save frequently used settings, such as paper type, size, and print quality, as profiles. This saves time when regularly printing similar documents. Printing from cloud storage services such as Google Drive or Dropbox is also available directly through the app's interface.
Direct connection mode (Wi-Fi Direct)
Situations where a router is unavailable, configured with complex restrictions, or simply missing are common. In such cases, technology comes to the rescue. Wi-Fi DirectIt allows you to create a direct wireless connection between your iPhone and printer, bypassing the router.
To activate this mode on a printer, you typically press and hold the direct connection button (the smartphone icon) or select the corresponding option in the Wi-Fi menu. The printer will create its own Wi-Fi network, the name of which often includes the model name and the word "Direct."
On your iPhone, go to Wi-Fi settings, find your printer's network, and connect to it. The default password is usually printed on a sticker on the device or displayed on the MFP screen. After connecting, your phone's internet connection may be lostβthis is normal; data will be transferred directly.
- π Open the Canon PRINT app or the document you want to print.
- πΆ Select the printer that is now available via direct connection.
- π¨οΈ Print, keeping in mind that in this mode the speed may be lower than through a router.
- π Once you've finished printing, remember to switch your iPhone back to your primary Wi-Fi network to access the internet.
Diagnostics and solution
Even with proper setup, problems may occur due to software conflicts or temporary network errors. If your iPhone doesn't see the printer, first check whether your antivirus software or router firewall is blocking local device communication (Bonjour/mDNS protocols).
A complete reset of the printer's network settings often helps. Find "Reset LAN settings" or "Restore network settings" in the menu. After doing this, you'll have to repeat the connection procedure, but this will resolve any accumulated IP address configuration errors.
It's also worth checking if your router has a limit on the number of devices that can be connected. On a crowded network, a new device may simply not receive an IP address. Restarting the router in this case frees up addresses and updates the routing table.
Commands for checking status (for advanced users):You can find the printer's IP address in the Canon PRINT app.
Try opening this address in the Safari browser on your iPhone.
If the Status Monitor page opens, there is a connection and the problem is in the AirPrint driver.
If all else fails, remove the printer from the list of devices in the Home app (if it was added there) and in your iPhone's Wi-Fi settings by selecting "Forget This Network" for the printer's network. Then, repeat the pairing process from the beginning.
Why does my printer only print black and white copies from my iPhone?
This may be due to the ink saving settings in the Canon PRINT app or the selected paper type. Check that "Black and White" is not selected in the settings menu before sending the job. Also, make sure the color cartridge isn't empty, as some models block color printing when one of the colors is low.
Is it possible to scan documents from a Canon printer to an iPhone?
Yes, but only through the Canon PRINT Inkjet/SELPHY or Canon Scanner app. Scanning is not supported via standard iOS tools (via AirPrint). In the app, you can choose the format (PDF/JPG), resolution, and destination (save to Photos, Files, or email).
What should I do if the edges of my photo are cut off when printing?
The problem often stems from a mismatch between the image proportions and the paper size. In the print settings, select "Borderless" if your printer and the selected paper support it. If this option is unavailable, try rescaling the image in the application before printing or selecting a different paper type in the settings.
How to find the IP address of a Canon printer using an iPhone?
Open the Canon PRINT app and select your printer. In the main menu or under "Device Settings" (gear icon), find "Device Information" or "Network Settings." The current IP address assigned by your router will be displayed there.