Mobile Printing Solutions: Android vs iOS

With the introduction of new printing products in the market, the demand for mobile consolidation has grown exponentially. Looking back to 2010, when Google’s Cloud Print was launched, it was a much-needed tool that simplified the printing process. The app was preinstalled on Android devices for several years and garnered over a billion downloads within a decade.

Despite its popularity, the service never left the beta stage. Over time, Google and Android developed alternative printing solutions, and printer manufacturers created their own print features and apps. As a result, in November 2019, Google announced the discontinuation of the tool. Users had until the end of 2020 to identify alternative solutions, such as third-party services or Chrome OS’s print option.

So, what’s the current state of mobile printing solutions today? How can one choose an operating system (OS) without making a mistake, and what criteria should one consider? Read on to help you make a decision that’s best for your needs.

In 2023, almost 72% of smartphone owners in the world use Android — meaning only 18% are fans of Apple devices. And for the most part, this 18% is concentrated in the USA, Canada, and Western Europe. Therefore, the benefit of Android lies in its wide audience reach. Most likely, this trend will not change in the coming years.

Mobile printing solutions allow users to easily print a wide range of content via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth to networkable wireless printers. With many of these apps directly linking to the Cloud, online hosting sites, and social networking sites, mobile printing has never been more convenient, regardless of your location. Accessing printers within range is simple and easy, requiring just a few clicks. These apps also offer complete control over printer settings and statuses, and feature print-view displays similar to those found on desktop computers.

Choosing the Right Mobile Printing Solution

However, when searching for a mobile printing app, it is essential to choose one that not only meets your needs but is also compatible with your technology. Many apps are designed for specific printer brands such as Epson, Hewlett Packard, Samsung, Lexmark, and Brother. Yet, some apps can connect to any printer within range, communicating solely through network connections without the need for drivers or external hardware. Some apps even offer scanning capabilities, using the quality of your device’s onboard camera to print almost anything.

These apps provide an extensive range of functions and accessibility options, catering to both iOS and Android users. While not all of them may suit your preferences, there is sure to be one that works perfectly for you. Choosing a mobile printing solution ultimately depends on your preferences, but all of them are reliable and will get the job done. These printing apps put the power and functionality of printers right at your fingertips.

What is Apple AirPrint?

AirPrint is a wireless printing technology developed by Apple that enables users to print from their Apple devices, such as iPhones, iPads, and Macs, to compatible printers without any additional software or drivers. It was first introduced in iOS 4.2 and has been included in all subsequent versions of iOS. It supports over 200 models of printers from leading manufacturers, making it easy for users to find a printer that works with their Apple devices.

Users can easily print from their Apple devices without the need for cables or a desktop computer. It eliminates the need for installing drivers or additional software, making the printing process quick and hassle-free. All documents, photos, emails, web pages, and more, print directly from any modern Apple device, with just a few taps.

Apple technology also provides users with the ability to manage their print jobs, including the number of copies and page ranges. Users can view their print queue and manage their in-progress print jobs from their Apple devices. This means that you can start a print job from anywhere within range of their wireless network and manage the print job on the go, without the need for a computer or additional software.

Although many people prefer wireless printing, Apple has also created the means for Mac computers to accept print jobs through USB. Of course, it’s still possible to use a printer if wireless printing is not an option. However, Bluetooth connections and Bluetooth-enabled devices are incompatible.

Most modern printers come equipped with AirPrint functionality, which simplifies the printing process for everyone in your home or office, allowing them to use this convenient technology from their linked iOS devices. With no need for additional software, drivers, or settings, the printing process becomes more straightforward. Due to its simplicity and compatibility with a vast range of printers, AirPrint has become a popular and preferred printing technology for many users.

Apple offers an impressive five-year software update plan for their phones, which is unmatched by most Android manufacturers. However, choosing iOS means committing to Apple as the sole phone or hand-held device manufacturer. In contrast, opting for Android allows for seamless switching between manufacturers, offering a wider variety of phones with varying options to choose from.

To sum it all up, choosing iOS for your app would be the ideal option if:

• Your primary audience uses Apple products
• You desire a development process that is quick and straightforward
• You prioritize user security and privacy

Mobile Printing Solutions for Android Devices

Android has established itself as a popular operating system for smartphones and tablets made by a variety of manufacturers, in contrast to iOS, which is only intended for Apple products. Cross-platform programming abilities can be helpful if you want to serve a wide range of customers.

Android serves as the operating system for the majority of well-known global titans like Samsung, ZTE, and Xiaomi. When app developers create an application, understanding the target audience is crucial. Gathering information such as age, income, marital status, profession, and interests can help determine the preferred operating system of the intended users. This knowledge can aid in designing and optimizing the application to meet the needs and expectations of the target audience. By tailoring the application to the preferences and behaviors of the audience, developers can increase the chances of user adoption and satisfaction. 

Android is known for being a more open operating system, which may appeal to those who desire the flexibility to download apps from sources outside of Google’s app store. This is not possible with iOS, as users are restricted to downloading all apps exclusively through Apple’s app store. Google Play usually does not require payment for any services sold through them. Pre-moderation of potential apps is performed by robots who primarily check the application for viruses. The moderators only flag the application in case of a huge number of complaints. Everything is a bit more involved with the Apple App Store. App moderation can take months, and the request may eventually be rejected. But if a program is published, it gets a much better chance of survival with the intended audience. 

Mobile Printing Solutions From Manufacturers

However today most printer manufacturers offer their own printing apps that are compatible with their devices and can be used to print files from your Android or iOS device using: HP Smart, Canon PRINT, Epson Connect, Samsung Mobile Print, or Brother iPrint&Scan. It’s worth noting that the compatibility of these printing apps may depend on the printer model and the operating system version of your Android or Apple device. In addition to these apps, Apple devices come with a built-in wireless printing feature AirPrint, which we talked about earlier, and enables users to print files directly to compatible printers without requiring any additional drivers or software.

Before ultimately making a decision on iOS vs. Android, it is crucial to assess your requirements, future app ideas, and development expenses, and then weigh your options. 

However, If your goals are to:

• Reach a broad audience
• Expedite the app’s arrival in the app store
• Prioritize app customization

Then opting for Android development would be the suitable choice.

What’s Next?

Today and for the foreseeable future, the most significant difference between the operating systems of these two phones goes beyond their features and functionalities. It’s all about their ecosystems and how seamlessly they integrate with all your other devices. So, if you want to feel that ultimate sense of harmony and efficiency in your digital life, it’s crucial to choose an OS that offers a seamless ecosystem that makes all your devices work together flawlessly.

Printing from your smartphone is a game-changer for professionals from all industries. In spite of the fact that traditional printers will always have their place, the convenience of mobile printing cannot be ignored. Our cutting-edge apps and services allow you to seamlessly print your virtual files from the web to your fingertips, making your business more versatile and productive than ever before.

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