What is NFC Printing and How to Print with NFC from Your iPhone or Android Device?

Near Field Communication (NFC) printing is quickly becoming one of the most convenient ways to print documents, photos, and even NFC cards directly from your smartphone or tablet. Whether you're printing off a boarding pass at the last minute or sending documents from your phone to your office printer, NFC offers a quick, cable-free, tap-and-go solution.

But how exactly does NFC printing work? What devices are compatible, and what do you need to get started? In this blog, I will walk you through the basics of NFC technology in the printing world, share the advantages (and limitations), and guide you step-by-step on how to print with NFC from your phone—particularly useful for iPhone users. I’ll also help you troubleshoot common issues and explain why choosing True Image cartridges can make a real difference.

🌸 Outline I. What is Near-Field Communication (NFC)? II. Benefits and Drawbacks of NFC Printing III. What Do You Need to Print with NFC? IV. How to Use NFC Feature to Print from an iPhone or Android Device V. Troubleshooting: Common NFC Printing Issues and How to Fix Them VI. Why Choose True Image Cartridges for Your NFC Printing? VII. Final Thoughts on How to Print on NFC Cards

 

I. What is Near-Field Communication (NFC)?

Near-Field Communication (NFC) is a short-range wireless communication technology that allows two devices to exchange data when they’re just a few centimetres apart—typically no more than 4cm. In the printing world, it enables a user to send a print job from a smartphone or tablet simply by tapping the device against a compatible printer. No fiddling with cables, Wi-Fi passwords, or router settings.

NFC in Printing: Key Uses

• Instant mobile printing: Send a document or image to print within seconds.
• Print NFC cards: Useful for security badges, access cards, or branded NFC-enabled business cards.
• Workplace convenience: Share one NFC printer among multiple users in an office without connecting everyone to a shared network.

II. Benefits and Drawbacks of NFC Printing

Let’s take a closer look at why NFC printing is gaining popularity—plus a few caveats to be aware of.

✅ Advantages

1. Hassle-Free Setup

No need for complicated Wi-Fi setups or Bluetooth pairing. Just tap your device and go.

Example: You're rushing out the door and need a quick printout of your boarding pass. With NFC, simply tap your phone on the printer and grab your document in seconds.

2. Speed and Simplicity

NFC printers detect compatible smartphones almost instantly, saving valuable time.

3. Secure Connection

Because NFC only works at very close range, it’s far less susceptible to remote hacking or unauthorised access.

4. Device Compatibility

Most modern Android smartphones and many Windows tablets support NFC printing.

Here’s a quick look at just how creative NFC automation can be – blink and it’s done:

 ❌ Disadvantages

1. Limited Range

You need to physically tap your device onto the printer. It’s not ideal if you prefer to send jobs from across the room.

2. Not Universally Supported

Some printers—especially older or entry-level models—do not support NFC. Always check specifications.

3. Apple’s Restriction

iPhones support NFC for payments but not for native printing. You’ll need a workaround using specific apps.

III. What Do You Need to Print with NFC?

Here’s a quick checklist to get started. Make sure you have the following:

IV. How to Use NFC Feature to Print from an iPhone or Android Device

Follow this step-by-step guide to get started with printing via NFC:

1. Enable NFC on Your Smartphone

• On Android: Go to Settings > Connections (Samsung) or Settings > Connected Devices.
• Toggle the NFC switch ON.

2. Switch on Your NFC Printer

• Ensure your printer is plugged in and powered on.
• Navigate to printer settings and make sure NFC mode is enabled.

3. Download and Set Up the Printer App

• Visit the Google Play Store and install the app from your printer's manufacturer.
• Open the app and go through the initial setup process.

4. Select the Document or Photo You Want to Print

• Open your chosen app, select the file you want to print (PDF, image, etc.)

Tap, print, done! This short video shows how NFC printing simplifies your workflow:

5. Tap to Print

• Hold your phone near the NFC tag on the printer.
• Once detected, the print job will start automatically.

6. Check Your Print Quality

• Once printing is complete, inspect the output.
• Low on ink or toner? Use True Image cartridges to maintain vibrant colour and crisp text.

Note for iPhone users: iPhones don’t support NFC printing directly, but you can still print wirelessly via AirPrint or third-party apps like Printer Pro or your printer’s app.

V. Troubleshooting: Common NFC Printing Issues and How to Fix Them

Here are a few frequent NFC printing hiccups—and how to resolve them efficiently:

1. My phone isn’t detecting the printer

Make sure NFC is actually switched on in your phone’s settings. Some phones automatically disable NFC to save battery. Also, double-check you’re tapping the correct area on the printer—it’s usually marked with an "NFC" icon.

2. The printer won’t respond to my tap

Try restarting both your phone and the printer. If that doesn't work, uninstall and reinstall the printer app to clear any software glitches. Also make sure your printer’s firmware is up to date.

3. Print quality is poor

If your prints come out faded or streaky, the problem likely lies with the ink or toner. Switch to premium, compatible cartridges like those from True Image—they offer sharp, consistent results and better page yields.

4. App says my device isn’t compatible

Some lower-end or older smartphones, especially budget models, may lack NFC hardware. You can check compatibility under Settings > About Phone > NFC.

5. I have an iPhone and can’t use NFC

You’re not alone—Apple restricts NFC usage for security. Use AirPrint for wireless printing or install your printer brand’s iOS app (like HP Smart or Canon PRINT) to access similar features.

Watch this easy-to-follow tutorial on how to print by Airprint:

VI. Why Choose True Image Cartridges for Your NFC Printing?

To get the most out of NFC printing—especially when printing business documents, schoolwork, or NFC-enabled ID cards—you’ll want ink or toner that won’t let you down.

True Image cartridges are designed for performance and affordability:

• Top-quality results: Vibrant colours, razor-sharp text.
• Budget-friendly: Up to 50% cheaper than OEM without sacrificing quality.
• Eco-conscious: A sustainable, recycled alternative to original cartridges.
• Perfect compatibility: Engineered to work flawlessly with all popular NFC printer brands.

Whether you’re printing one document or a full batch of NFC cards, True Image helps you do it smarter, faster, and greener. Our HP 219X and TN-248XL toner cartridges are ideal for eco-conscious users who demand excellent print quality without overspending.

VII. Final Thoughts on How to Print on NFC Cards

NFC printing isn’t just a futuristic gimmick—it’s a genuinely handy feature that simplifies mobile printing. No cables, no setup headaches, just a tap and print.

With an NFC-capable printer, a supported smartphone, and reliable cartridges from True Image, you can unlock the full potential of this smart technology.

So go on—give it a try and discover just how easy printing can be in the modern world.

Ready to upgrade your printing game? Browse True Image’s range of compatible ink and toner cartridges today.