Step-by-Step: How to Connect iPhone to HP OfficeJet Pro 8720 for Effortless Printing

Are you tired of juggling cables and struggling with complicated setups? Connecting your iPhone to your HP OfficeJet Pro 8720 printer doesn’t have to be a headache. This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free printing experience.

Understanding the Connections: Wireless vs. Wired

Before we dive into the specifics, it’s essential to understand the two primary ways you can connect your iPhone to your HP OfficeJet Pro 8720:

• Wireless Connection: This is the most convenient option, allowing you to print from anywhere in your home or office without needing physical cables.
• Wired Connection: This method requires a USB cable connecting your iPhone to the printer. While less common, it can be useful in situations where wireless connectivity is unavailable or unreliable.

The Wireless Way: Connecting via Wi-Fi

1. Ensure Your Printer is Connected to Wi-Fi:

• Power On: Start by powering on your HP OfficeJet Pro 8720 printer.
• Network Setup: Look for the wireless icon on the printer’s control panel. Press it to access the network setup menu.
• Connect to Your Wi-Fi: Select your home or office Wi-Fi network from the list displayed on the screen. Enter your Wi-Fi password and confirm the connection.

2. Download the HP Smart App:

• App Store: Open the App Store on your iPhone.
• Search for HP Smart: Type “HP Smart” into the search bar and tap the app icon.
• Download & Install: Download the app and install it on your iPhone.

3. Add Your Printer:

• Open HP Smart: Launch the HP Smart app on your iPhone.
• Add Printer: Tap the “Add Printer” button.
• Discover Printers: The app will scan for nearby printers. Select your HP OfficeJet Pro 8720 from the list.
• Follow On-Screen Instructions: The app will guide you through the remaining steps, including confirming your printer’s connection and establishing communication.

The Wired Way: Connecting via USB

1. Connect Your iPhone to the Printer:

• USB Cable: Use a certified USB cable to connect your iPhone to the USB port on your HP OfficeJet Pro 8720 printer.
• Unlock Your iPhone: Ensure your iPhone is unlocked and connected to the internet.
• Approve Connection: A pop-up message may appear on your iPhone asking you to trust the connection. Tap “Trust” to proceed.

2. Print from Your iPhone:

• Open a Document: Open the document you want to print on your iPhone.
• Select Print: Tap the “Share” icon (typically a square with an upward arrow) and select “Print.”
• Choose Printer: Choose your HP OfficeJet Pro 8720 as the printer.
• Adjust Settings: You can adjust print settings like paper size, color, and number of copies.
• Start Printing: Tap “Print” to send the document to your printer.

Troubleshooting Common Connection Issues

• Network Connectivity: If you’re having trouble connecting wirelessly, ensure your iPhone and printer are connected to the same Wi-Fi network.
• Firewall Settings: Check your iPhone’s firewall settings to ensure they are not blocking the HP Smart app.
• Printer Driver: Make sure your iPhone has the latest printer driver installed. You can update or reinstall the driver through the HP Smart app.
• Restart Devices: Sometimes, restarting your iPhone and printer can resolve connection issues.

Printing from Your iPhone: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Open the Document:

• Select Document: Open the document, image, or webpage you want to print from your iPhone.

2. Access the Print Menu:

• Share Icon: Tap the “Share” icon, which is usually a square with an upward arrow.
• Select Print: Select “Print” from the list of options.

3. Choose Your Printer:

• Printer Selection: Choose your HP OfficeJet Pro 8720 from the list of available printers.

4. Adjust Printing Settings:

• Paper Size: Select the appropriate paper size for your document.
• Color: Choose color or black and white printing.
• Number of Copies: Specify the number of copies you need.
• Other Options: Depending on the document, you might have additional printing options, such as duplex printing (two-sided) or page orientation (portrait or landscape).

5. Initiate Printing:

• Start Printing: Tap “Print” to send the document to your HP OfficeJet Pro 8720.

Beyond Basic Printing: Utilizing HP Smart’s Features

The HP Smart app offers more than just basic printing. Explore these features to enhance your printing experience:

• Scan Documents: Scan documents directly from your iPhone using the HP Smart app.
• Faxing: Send faxes from your iPhone using the app’s faxing feature.
• Printer Management: Monitor your printer’s ink levels, order new cartridges, and manage other printer settings.
• Remote Printing: Print from anywhere in the world with an internet connection using the HP Smart app.

A New Era of Printing: Embracing Convenience and Efficiency

Connecting your iPhone to your HP OfficeJet Pro 8720 printer opens up a world of possibilities. From printing documents and photos to scanning and faxing, you can manage all your printing needs conveniently and efficiently.

What You Need to Know

Q: Can I print from multiple iPhones to the same HP OfficeJet Pro 8720 printer?
A: Yes, you can connect multiple iPhones to your HP OfficeJet Pro 8720 printer using the HP Smart app.
Q: What if my printer isn‘t listed in the HP Smart app?
A: Ensure your printer is powered on, connected to the same Wi-Fi network as your iPhone, and that the HP Smart app is updated.
Q: Can I print directly from a web page on my iPhone?
A: Yes, you can print directly from a web page on your iPhone. Simply open the webpage, tap the “Share” icon, and select “Print.”
Q: What if I’m having trouble connecting to my printer?
A: Try restarting your iPhone and printer. If the issue persists, check your firewall settings, ensure your printer is connected to the same Wi-Fi network, and update your printer driver.
Q: Are there any limitations to printing from my iPhone?
A: While you can print most documents and images, some specific file types or formats may not be supported.