For nearly a decade, Epson iPrint served as the standard mobile utility for Epson wireless printing. However, starting with printers released from 2020 onward, Seiko Epson Corporation introduced Epson Smart Panel as its next-generation flagship. Here is everything you need to know about the differences.
Side-by-Side Feature Matrix
| Feature / Capability | Epson iPrint (Legacy) | Epson Smart Panel (Modern) |
|---|---|---|
| Interface Design | Classic hierarchical list-based menu | Dynamic, customizable tile card dashboard |
| Printer Unboxing & Setup | Manual Wi-Fi configuration required | Conversational chat wizard with BLE pairing |
| Live Consumable Status | Static status bar indicator | Real-time percentage gauges & maintenance box life |
| Creative Printing Studio | Basic photo grid printing | Create+ Studio: cards, collages, coloring pages |
| Camera Document Capture | Basic camera scan | Auto-edge detection, keystone warp & glare reduction |
| Voice Assistant Integration | None | Siri Shortcuts & Google Assistant voice triggers |
| Firmware Updating | PC required or manual menu | One-touch in-app OTA firmware flashing |
Why Did Epson Transition to Smart Panel?
Epson iPrint was built when smartphones were primarily used as secondary devices to desktop computers. Modern home and small business users now configure, operate, and maintain EcoTank printers entirely from smartphones without ever connecting a PC. Smart Panel was engineered from the kernel up to support complete PC-free printer ownership.
Should You Upgrade?
- Upgrade to Smart Panel if: You own an EcoTank (ET-2800, ET-2850, ET-3850, ET-4850, ET-8550, L-series), WorkForce (WF-2800+, WF-3800+, WF-7800+), or Expression Home (XP-4100+, XP-5100+) manufactured after 2020.
- Stay on iPrint if: You use an older pre-2020 legacy Stylus or early WorkForce printer that does not support the Smart Panel bidirectional communication protocol.
Ready to Upgrade?
Download the latest version from our official download center.