Why Is My HP Printer Not Connecting to Mobile Device?

# Why Is My HP Printer Not Connecting to Mobile Device? **1-844-957-6312** — Having trouble connecting your HP printer to your mobile device? Follow our quick checklist to fix network, app, and permission issues — or call for step-by-step support. Mobile printing fails for a handful of predictable reasons: network mismatch, app permissions, [outdated firmware or drivers,](https://www.helpocenter.com/printer/how-to-update-hp-printer-firmware/) temporary software glitches, or router features that block local device discovery. Below is a clear, practical checklist you can use to identify and fix the issue on iPhone, iPad, Android phones, and tablets. Follow the steps in order — many fixes are quick — and try printing after each one. ![Screenshot 2025-08-19 171307](https://hackmd.io/_uploads/BktyDrNYxe.png) **Quick checklist (try these first)** * Make sure both the mobile device and the HP printer are powered on and awake. * Confirm both devices are connected to the **same Wi-Fi network** (not a guest network or a different band). * Restart the printer, mobile device, and router (power off 30–60 seconds, then power on). * Verify the printer supports mobile printing (AirPrint for Apple, Mopria for many Androids, or via HP Smart). If you have an older model, check the user manual for compatibility. ## Step 1 — Confirm network and band Mobile printing almost always requires both devices to be on the same local network. Many homes have dual-band routers (2.4 GHz and 5 GHz). Printers often work best on 2.4 GHz; some phone/tablet combinations may be on 5 GHz. On your phone, check Wi-Fi settings and ensure the SSID exactly matches the printer’s reported network (print a wireless report from the printer to confirm). If the printer and phone are on different bands or different SSIDs, reconnect one so they match. ## Step 2 — Use the right mobile printing method * iPhone / iPad: use **AirPrint** (no app needed). Open the document/photo, tap **Share > Print**, then choose the printer under **Select Printer**. * Android: use the **HP Smart** app or the system Print service (Mopria). In many apps tap **Print** and select the HP printer; if it’s not listed, open HP Smart. * HP Smart: this app often solves discovery problems and can guide setup, update firmware, and perform test prints. Install or update HP Smart from the App Store / Google Play and follow the “Set up a new printer” flow. ![Screenshot 2025-08-19 171459](https://hackmd.io/_uploads/By8gvB4Fge.png) ## Step 3 — Check app permissions and local network access Modern mobile OSes restrict apps’ ability to discover local devices unless permissions are granted. On iOS, ensure the HP Smart app has Local Network access (Settings > HP Smart > toggle Local Network). On Android, allow Location and Nearby Devices permissions for HP Smart. Also check that Bluetooth is enabled if your printer uses Bluetooth-assisted setup. ## Step 4 — Update firmware and app Outdated printer firmware or an old version of HP Smart can break discovery and printing. From a computer or via HP Smart, check for firmware updates and install them. Update the HP Smart app on your phone/tablet. After updates, reboot the printer and device and try again. ## Step 5 — Disable VPNs and temporary firewall/antivirus checks VPNs on mobile devices route traffic off the local network and prevent printer discovery. Temporarily disable VPNs and try printing. If you have a mobile antivirus or network security app, temporarily disable it to test. Remember to re-enable security software after testing. ## Step 6 — Router settings that block local discovery Some routers have settings such as Guest Network isolation, AP/client isolation, or client isolation that prevent devices from seeing each other. If your phone is on a guest SSID the printer won’t show up. Log into your router (or ask whoever manages it) and ensure client isolation is off for the network both devices use. For bulky or corporate Wi-Fi, consult the network administrator — enterprise networks often block the protocols AirPrint and Mopria need. ## Step 7 — Try direct connection methods * **Wi-Fi Direct**: many HP printers support Wi-Fi Direct — connect your phone directly to the printer’s Wi-Fi Direct network and print without the router. Look for a Wi-Fi Direct option on the printer control panel or in HP Smart. * **Bluetooth**: some newer models support Bluetooth for discovery/setup — enable Bluetooth on your phone and follow the printer’s pairing instructions. * **USB-OTG (Android)**: advanced users can sometimes print via USB-OTG cable if supported. ## Step 8 — Reinstall or reset the app/printer If the app behaves oddly, uninstall HP Smart, reboot the phone, reinstall, and set up the printer again. On the printer, try restoring network defaults (usually Settings > Network > Restore Network Defaults) and then reconnect via HP Smart or the control panel. Be aware resetting network defaults will remove saved Wi-Fi and cloud settings, so have your Wi-Fi password handy. ![Screenshot 2025-08-19 170841](https://hackmd.io/_uploads/Sy4MDr4tle.png) ## Step 9 — Test with another mobile device Try another phone or tablet to see whether the issue is with the original mobile device or the printer. If a second device connects successfully, the problem is localized to the first phone/tablet (permissions, OS bug, or app state). If no device can connect, focus on the printer and network. ## Step 10 — Advanced diagnostics Print the printer’s network configuration or wireless report to check IP address and connection quality. Ping the printer IP from a computer on the same network to verify reachability. If the IP changes frequently, set up a DHCP reservation in the router to give the printer a stable IP for reliable discovery. **When to seek help** If you’ve tried the steps above and the [printer still won’t connect from mobile, ](https://www.helpocenter.com/printer/why-is-my-hp-printer-not-connecting-to-mobile-device/)or if router settings and firmware updates are intimidating, get expert assistance. A technician can remotely check network settings, guide firmware updates, or walk you through advanced setup procedures. Follow these steps methodically and you’ll resolve most mobile connection problems. If you prefer live guidance while you make changes, a support specialist can help you troubleshoot in real time.