Microsoft wants to help macOS users finally conquer their most annoying printing problem for good
Microsoft is looking to expand the printing experience beyond its usual Windows user base with the launch of an expanded service for macOS users.
The company has revealed that it will integrate its Universal Print service with macOS, simplifying the printing process for Apple users everywhere.
Previously only available on Windows devices, Universal Print gives users a streamlined way to quickly print their documents, files, images and more from a wide variety of apps.
macOS Universal Print
“Universal Print's native integration with macOS allows macOS users to print from any app, just like Windows users can do today,” according to the feature's listing on the official website. Microsoft 365 roadmap noted. “Whether people use Windows or macOS, they have a seamless printing experience with no learning curve.”
The service remains on a subscription basis as it runs entirely on Microsoft's Azure cloud platform, making it ideal for business and enterprise users who may need to share printers with a larger number of colleagues.
The tool is still listed as in development for now, although Microsoft says a preview will be available for Mac users to test in January 2024, before a planned wider launch in June 2024.
There's no mention of ideal system requirements for Mac users, but Microsoft currently requires Windows 10 devices to have office software version 1903 or later installed, so Apple's latest software versions should be more than sufficient.
The news comes shortly after Microsoft confirmed that it will no longer provide third-party printer drivers on devices running Windows OS, including Windows 11, meaning printer manufacturers will not have to provide special drivers.
Many Windows 11 and 10 users were also recently surprised after an unwanted HP app was installed on their systems without their knowledge. The HP Smart app, which allows you to control HP printers or MFDs (multifunction devices that also scan), was also installed on non-HP PCs, as well as some users who were not connected to an HP printer.