Smartphones and tablets are increasingly displacing desktops and notebooks in small businesses. But while these handheld devices are a boon to mobile productivity, they also present a problem when it comes to a common activity that is frequently take for granted — printing. Thankfully, app developers have merged the worlds of printing, online storage and mobile accessibility into one neat package: mobile printing apps.
With mobile printing apps, users can take advantage of networkable wireless printers and print practically any form of content via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth. Many of these apps link directly to the Cloud, online hosting sites, and even social networking sites, to allow quick and convenient mobile printing regardless of your location. Mobile printing depends on finding accessible printers within range, and just clicking. These apps offer complete control over printer settings and statuses, they even feature print view displays that are equivalent to those featured on desktop computers.These apps communicate purely over network connection, there is no need for drivers or external hardware as with PC’s. Also, some apps even offer scan options, which depend on the quality of your on-board camera, letting users literally print any content they can get their hands on. These printing apps have taken the functionality of printers and placed the control in user’s hands. Two of our favorite mobile printing apps are PrintJinni and PrinterShare.
Another fun twist in mobile printing are mini bluetooth photo printers like the HP Sprocket and the Polaroid Zip Mobile Printer. Using Zink sticky-backed photo paper, these handy smartphone-sized printers don’t require any ink cartridges. The printers have a rechargeable battery and can print up to 30 sheets of photo paper per charge. Users can customize their photos with filters, text and frames before printing using the photo printer app. Since these printer don’t use ink, prints are smudge-proof, water and tear resistant. They are the perfect little photo printers for people on the go.
For more information on solutions for running your businesses’ technology more efficiently, visit our website or contact Megan Meisner at mmeisner@launchpadonline.com or 813 448-7100 x210.