How to print from whatsapp easily and effectively

Understanding WhatsApp and Printing Capabilities
WhatsApp has become an integral communication tool in today’s digital world. With billions of users globally, it serves as an invaluable platform for not just chatting, but also for sharing media such as photos, videos, and documents.
Many users often find themselves in need of printing specific messages or media received via this application. Whether you want to print a cherished photo, a meaningful conversation, or an important document, it’s feasible to accomplish this task with a few simple steps.
How to Print from WhatsApp on Android Devices
If you’re using an Android device, printing directly from WhatsApp can be done effortlessly. Here is a step-by-step approach that you can follow:
Step 1: Download and Install a Printing App
To start, you’ll need a compatible printing app. Google Cloud Print was a popular choice, however, it was discontinued in December 2020. Many printers now have their own apps which can typically be found on the Google Play Store. Search for your printer’s name or use one of the following popular printing apps:
- HP Smart
- Epson iPrint
- Canon PRINT Inkjet/SELPHY
- Brother iPrint&Scan
- Samsung Mobile Print
Step 2: Connect Your Printer
Once you have installed the appropriate app, ensure that your Android device is connected to the same Wi-Fi network as your printer. Open the printing app and follow the instructions to add your printer.
Step 3: Print from WhatsApp
Now that your printing setup is complete, you can start to print the desired content from WhatsApp:
- Open the WhatsApp application on your Android device.
- Navigate to the chat containing the message or media you want to print.
- Select the message or media by tapping and holding it.
- Tap on the three dots in the upper right corner to open the menu.
- Select Share and then choose the printing app you have installed.
Follow the prompts in your printer app, and hit Print. Your document/photo will be printed shortly!
How to Print from WhatsApp on iOS Devices
iOS users are not left out either. Printing from WhatsApp on an iPhone or iPad follows a similar procedure:
Step 1: Ensure AirPrint Compatibility
If you have a compatible printer that supports AirPrint, you should have no trouble. Make sure your iOS device and the printer are connected to the same Wi-Fi network.
Step 2: Printing from WhatsApp
Once your AirPrint-compatible printer is ready, follow these steps:
- Open WhatsApp on your iPhone or iPad.
- Locate the chat with the media or message you wish to print.
- Tap and hold the message or media to select it.
- Choose the Share option from the menu that appears.
- Select Print from the set of available sharing options.
- Choose your printer and adjust any print settings as needed.
- Finally, tap Print to get your document or image.
Alternative Methods for Printing WhatsApp Content
Aside from printing directly from the app, there are other creative ways to obtain physical copies of your WhatsApp chats and media. Here are some alternatives:
Saving to Gallery or File
You can first save the media you want to print to your device’s gallery or file system and then print from there. Here’s how:
- Open WhatsApp and find the media or message you wish to print.
- Choose the content and select the Download button (if needed).
- Go to your device’s Gallery or file manager and locate the downloaded content.
- Open the file and select the Print option.
Using Email for Document Printing
Another method to print your WhatsApp chats is to email them to yourself:
- In WhatsApp, open the chat you want to print.
- Tap the three dots in the top right and select More.
- Choose Export Chat and select whether to include media or not.
- Email the exported chat to yourself.
- Open your email on a computer, where you can print the content easily.
Troubleshooting Common Printing Issues
Despite the ease of printing from WhatsApp, users sometimes encounter a few issues. Here are some common problems and their solutions:
Printer Not Found
If your device does not recognize your printer:
- Check if both devices are connected to the same network.
- Restart both your mobile device and printer.
- Ensure your printer is powered on and has sufficient paper and ink.
Documents Not Printing Correctly
If the output is not as expected:
- Check your printer settings to ensure quality is set adequately.
- If printing a photo, ensure you are using photo paper and the correct settings.
- Ensure that your document format is compatible with your printer.
Notifications of Print Job Failure
If you receive notifications that your print job has failed:
- Make sure that your printer is not offline.
- Clear any stuck print jobs from your printer queue.
- Try re-sending the print job after resetting your connection.
Remember, printing from WhatsApp is a straightforward process once you understand how to navigate your phone and printer settings. Follow these proven methods, and you’ll have your cherished messages and images printed in no time!