Modern Xiaomi and Redmi smartphones have long since become powerful work tools, allowing you to perform tasks that previously required a computer. One of the most popular use cases is wireless printing documents and photos. However, unlike flagship brands, where printing features are often deeply integrated into the system, on Xiaomi devices this process may require initial setup.
The main challenge lies in the variety of printing technologies. Users often confuse direct Wi-Fi connections, cloud printing, and standard Mopria protocols. Understanding the differences between these methods is key to success. In this article, we'll cover all the current connection methods, from built-in MIUI system functions to specialized plugins for specific printer models.
Don't be intimidated by technical terms or the apparent complexity of the process. Android, on the basis of which the shell works HyperOS or MIUI, has a flexible architecture that allows you to interact with peripherals without unnecessary wires. Simply choose the right algorithm for your specific situation.
Preparing equipment and network
Before moving on to software settings, you need to ensure physical communication between the devices. A fundamental requirement for most methods is that the smartphone and printer are on the same local network. This means both devices must be connected to the same router. If your printer only supports a wired connection, make sure it is connected via cable to the same router that your phone is connected to via Wi-Fi.
The second important aspect is checking protocol compatibility. Most modern models support the standard. Mopria, which is universal for Android. However, older models may require proprietary apps from the manufacturer, such as HP Smart, Epson iPrint or Canon PRINTFind out the model of your printing device in advance to choose the optimal connection strategy.
⚠️ Important: Make sure the "Guest Network" feature is not enabled on your router for your devices. Guest mode often isolates clients from each other, preventing your Xiaomi phone from detecting the printer.
It's also worth checking that Wi-Fi is enabled on your smartphone. Sometimes the system can switch to mobile data if the wireless signal is weak, which can interrupt the connection to the printer. A stable signal is critical for transferring large amounts of data, especially if you plan to print high-resolution photos.
Method 1: Using the Mopria system plugin
Starting with certain versions of the shell MIUIXiaomi has integrated support for the Mopria standard directly into the system. This is the simplest and most native method, eliminating the need to install third-party apps for each printer brand. To get started, you may need to activate the appropriate plugin, which is often pre-installed but hidden.
Go to your smartphone's settings and find the section for "Connection and Sharing" or "Advanced Settings." Look for "Printing" here. If you don't see the plugin you need in the list, you may need to download it from the store. GetApps or Google PlayLook for the "Mopria Print Service" app or the "Mopria Print Plugin" app.
After installing and enabling the plugin, the system will automatically scan the network for available devices. Once a printer is found, it will appear in the list of available devices. Now, when you try to print a document from any application (Gallery, Browser, Documents), your printer model will be displayed in the printer selection menu.
It's important to note that this method works best with A4-sized PDF documents or images. Complex layouts or specific paper settings may require more advanced tools. However, for quickly printing tickets, receipts, or photos, this option is the fastest and most energy-efficient.
Method 2: Official Mi Print app
Xiaomi has developed its own app Mi Print, which is designed to unify the printing process for users of their ecosystem. This app is especially useful when standard methods don't work or require advanced functionality. It supports not only printing but also scanning, if your MFP has this feature.
To get started, download the app from the official app store. Once launched, Mi Print will request permission to access your local network and files—this is necessary for proper operation. The app will automatically search for printers on your Wi-Fi network. Unlike the system plugin, this app provides more detailed information about cartridge status and ink levels.
The app's interface allows for basic editing before printing. You can resize images, select black-and-white mode, and set the number of copies and page range. This makes Mi Print a convenient tool for office tasks when you're away from a computer but need to quickly prepare a report or contract.
| Function | Mopria Plugin | Mi Print Application | Manufacturer's application |
|---|---|---|---|
| Installation | System/Store | Download required | Download required |
| Scanning support | No | Yes | Yes |
| Color settings | Basic | Extended | Professional |
| Compatibility | Universal | Xiaomi + Printers | Only your own brand |
It's worth mentioning that the Mi Print app is updated periodically, and the interface may change. If you're having trouble finding a feature, check the app store for updates. The developers are constantly adding support for new printer models, so keeping the software up-to-date is crucial.
☑️ Check before printing
Method 3: Manufacturer-Specific Applications
When universal methods don't produce the desired result, specialized applications from printing equipment manufacturers come to the rescue. Brands like HP, Canon, Epson And Brother are developing their own solutions, which often offer more functionality than standard Android tools. For example, the application HP Smart allows you not only to print, but also to order ink or diagnose problems.
The setup process for such apps is usually standardized. After installation, you'll be prompted to add a new printer. The app will automatically find the device on the Wi-Fi network. The advantage of this method is access to specific features, such as double-sided printing, paper type selection, margin settings, and scaling, which may not be available in Xiaomi's system print menu.
However, this approach has its downsides. Installing a separate, cumbersome app for each printer can clog up your smartphone's memory. If you use different printers in different locations (at home, in the office, at a copy shop), maintaining a set of five different apps from different vendors isn't always convenient. In such cases, it's better to stick with a single, universal solution and use specialized ones as needed.
⚠️ Please note: Some manufacturer apps may require you to create an account and sign in to use them fully. This can be inconvenient for one-time printing, so consider the need for registration.
Additionally, specialized apps often offer cloud printing features, which we'll discuss below. These allow you to print documents even when your phone and printer are in different cities, something that's impossible to achieve over local Wi-Fi.
Printing via Wi-Fi Direct (without a router)
Situations where the router is unavailable or you're in a location where you can't connect to the public network are common. This is where technology comes to the rescue. Wi-Fi DirectThis protocol allows for a direct wireless connection between a Xiaomi phone and a printer, bypassing any intermediate equipment.
To activate this mode, go to the printer and look for a button with a wireless network icon or the word "Direct." Pressing this button (sometimes a long press is required) activates discoverability mode. The network name and connection password will appear on the printer screen or in the printed network configuration report (if equipped).
Next, on your Xiaomi phone, you need to open the Wi-Fi settings and find the network with the name containing the printer model (for example, DIRECT-HP-Deskjet), and connect to it by entering the password. Once the connection is established, the printing procedure is the same as usual: select the document, click "Print," and select the detected device.
What to do if Wi-Fi Direct is not working?
If the connection fails, try "forgetting" the printer's network in your phone's Wi-Fi settings and reconnecting. Also, make sure no other device is connected to the printer, as many models only support one direct connection at a time.
If you need to download a document from the internet for printing, do so in advance while your mobile internet or Wi-Fi router is working.
Using cloud services and Google Cloud Print
Although the classic Google Cloud Print service was officially shut down, its functionality was redistributed between manufacturers and new cloud solutions. Modern printers often have their own cloud address or support services like AirPrint (via third-party bridges) or Mopria CloudFor Xiaomi users, this means the ability to print from anywhere in the world.
Cloud printing is typically set up through the printer's web interface. You need to access the device settings via a computer browser, link the printer to your manufacturer account, and receive a code or email address for printing. After that, by installing the corresponding app on your phone and logging into the same account, you can send documents to the cloud, from where the printer will retrieve them.
This method is ideal for remote work. You can send an important contract to the office printer from home, or print photos at a photo center by sending them in advance. The main requirement is that the printer be connected to the internet and ready to print.
⚠️ Please note: Cloud printing uses internet data on both your phone and printer. Make sure your data plans allow for large data transfers, especially when printing high-quality photos.
Some routers and NAS systems can also function as print servers by connecting a USB printer to the router's port. In this case, the Xiaomi phone sees the printer as a network device. This is an old but reliable method that doesn't rely on cloud services from manufacturers and works locally within your network.
Common problems and their solutions
Despite the simplicity of the technology, users often encounter difficulties. The most common issue is "Printer not found." In 90% of cases, this can be resolved by ensuring both devices are on the same subnet (the same router IP address, for example, 192.168.1.x). If you have guest Wi-Fi or a VLAN configured, the devices may simply not see each other.
The second common error is a frozen print queue. If the document has been sent but printing isn't happening, try clearing the queue. Go to the printing settings, find any active print jobs, and cancel them. Then restart the print service on your phone. Sometimes, simply restarting the printer itself helps, as this clears internal buffer errors.
Formatting issues are also common. The document may be cropped or misaligned. This can be resolved by selecting the correct paper size in the print settings (usually A4) and disabling the "Fit to Page" option if it distorts the proportions. Always check the print preview before submitting the task.
Why can't my Xiaomi phone see the printer on the network?
Most often, the problem lies in your router settings. Check if AP Isolation is enabled. This feature prevents devices within the network from exchanging data. Also, make sure your antivirus or firewall isn't blocking local connections.
Is it possible to print via USB cable?
Yes, if your printer is connected to your computer, and your computer shares the printer over the network, your phone will see it. Direct connection via USB cable (via an OTG adapter) to your phone is only possible for certain printer models and requires PictBridge support or special drivers, which is rare.
How to improve the quality of photo prints from your phone?
Use original photo paper and select "Photo Paper" or "Glossy" in the print settings. Also, try to print original files rather than screenshots or images from messaging apps, which are heavily compressed.
Does iPhone printing work on Xiaomi printers?
The question is worded incorrectly; Xiaomi phones run Android. If you meant printing from an iPhone to a printer via the Xiaomi network, yes, as long as the printer supports AirPrint. The Xiaomi phone brand itself has nothing to do with printer compatibility with iOS.
Do you need internet access to print via Wi-Fi?
No, local printing via Wi-Fi or Wi-Fi Direct doesn't require internet access. Your router can create a local network. Internet access is only required for downloading drivers, updates, or using cloud printing.