How to Connect HS-802 Thermal Printer to iPad?
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How to Connect HS-802 Thermal Printer to iPad?

Post by pengmike
Sep 10 2025
For businesses using iPads for mobile workflows—like retail staff ringing up customers on the sales floor, café servers taking tableside orders, or event staff printing tickets on-site—connecting a thermal printer to an iPad is a game-changer. A common question we get about our HS-802 thermal printer is: “Can it connect to an iPad?” As a 10+ year foreign trade factory specializing in thermal printers, we’re here to give a clear, actionable answer: Yes, the HS-802 can connect to an iPad, but two conditions apply: you need a shared network, and you cannot use iPad’s native AirPrint function—you’ll need third-party or our factory-provided software instead.


This setup is simple to implement, and it unlocks the HS-802’s flexibility for iPad-driven teams. Let’s break down why the network is required, why AirPrint doesn’t work, and how to connect the two devices step-by-step.

1. Connection Requirement: A Shared Network Is Non-Negotiable

The HS-802 connects to iPads via a shared WiFi or Ethernet network—not via direct Bluetooth or USB (though it supports Bluetooth for other devices). Here’s why a network is necessary:


  • The HS-802 uses network-based communication protocols (like TCP/IP) to talk to iPads. Unlike Bluetooth (which works for short-range direct connections), a network lets you place the printer farther from the iPad (e.g., a kitchen printer connected to a server’s iPad across a café) while maintaining a stable link.
  • iPads limit direct USB connections to specific certified devices, and the HS-802 is optimized for network printing (a more flexible option for busy teams).


The fix is easy: Make sure both the HS-802 and your iPad are connected to the same WiFi network (or the same Ethernet network via a router). For example:


  • In a retail store, connect the HS-802 to the store’s WiFi, then connect your iPad to the same WiFi.
  • In a warehouse, use a portable WiFi router to create a local network for both devices if no existing WiFi is available.

2. Why iPad AirPrint Doesn’t Work with the HS-802

Many iPad users assume they can use AirPrint (Apple’s native printing feature) to connect to any printer—but AirPrint only works with AirPrint-certified devices. The HS-802 is not AirPrint-certified, and this is a deliberate choice:


  • AirPrint is designed for general-purpose printers (like inkjet printers for documents), not specialized thermal printers. It lacks the settings needed for thermal printing—such as adjusting label size, print speed, or barcode clarity—critical for receipt or label quality.
  • We prioritize efficiency for thermal-specific tasks. Instead of adding AirPrint (which would bloat the printer’s firmware and slow down performance), we focus on software that’s tailored to thermal printing needs.


This doesn’t mean you can’t print from your iPad—it just means you’ll use a better tool for the job: dedicated thermal printing software.

3. How to Connect HS-802 to iPad: Step-by-Step with Software

Connecting the HS-802 to your iPad takes 5 minutes or less, using either our factory-provided software or trusted third-party apps. Here’s how:

Step 1: Ensure Both Devices Are on the Same Network

As mentioned, connect the HS-802 to your WiFi/Ethernet network (follow the HS-802 user manual to enter network credentials via the printer’s control panel or web interface). Then connect your iPad to the same network.

Step 2: Download a Compatible Printing App

We recommend two options:


  • Our Factory-Provided App (Free): Search for “HS Thermal Print” in the App Store (available in English). It’s pre-configured for the HS-802, so you won’t need to adjust complex settings—just select your printer model and start printing.
  • Third-Party Apps: If you prefer, use popular thermal printing apps like “Thermal Printer Utility” or “PrintDirect for Thermal” (both available on the App Store). These work with the HS-802 as long as you select the “TCP/IP” connection mode.

Step 3: Pair the HS-802 with the App

Open the app, tap “Add Printer,” and select “Network Printer.” The app will scan for devices on the same network—select the HS-802 (it will show as “HS-802_Thermal” in the list). Once paired, you can:


  • Print receipts from your iPad’s POS app (e.g., Square, Shopify POS) by selecting the HS-802 as the printer in the app’s settings.
  • Customize print settings (e.g., 58mm/80mm paper width, print speed) directly in the thermal app.

4. Ideal Scenarios for HS-802 + iPad Setup

This combination shines in mobile or customer-facing workflows:


  • Retail: Sales staff use iPads to check out customers anywhere in the store, then print receipts directly to the HS-802 (placed at the exit or a central counter).
  • Food & Beverage: Servers take orders on iPads at the table, and the HS-802 (in the kitchen) prints tickets instantly—no more running back and forth with paper orders.
  • Events: Staff use iPads to sell tickets or merchandise, then print receipts/tickets to a portable HS-802 (powered by a battery pack).

5. Why Trust the HS-802 from a 10-Year Factory?

We’ve tested the HS-802 + iPad setup with hundreds of global clients, and we back it with:


  • Free Software Support: If you have trouble with the app, our 24/7 English-speaking team can help troubleshoot via email or video call.
  • Stable Network Performance: The HS-802’s network module is built for 24/7 use, with minimal disconnections even in busy WiFi environments.
  • Global Compatibility: The app works with all iPad models running iOS 12 or later, and the HS-802 supports voltage ranges (100-240V) for use worldwide.


In short: The HS-802 can connect to an iPad—just use a shared network and dedicated thermal printing software (no AirPrint needed). This setup is simple, flexible, and perfect for businesses that rely on iPads for mobile operations.


If you need help downloading the app, setting up the network, or troubleshooting the connection, contact our team today. We’re here to make your HS-802 + iPad workflow seamless.
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