Microsoft Brings Windows 11’s Universal Print Capabilities to Windows 10

Windows 10

Microsoft has announced that new Universal Print capabilities that debuted on Windows 11 last year are coming to Windows 10. This release introduces a new feature that lets users add a PIN (personal identification number) to a print job.

The new PIN integration should help to enhance security and reduce toner and paper waste in enterprise environments. “PIN entry in the print dialog box when the printer reports it supports PIN release through the IPP standard. As of writing this blog, Epson, and Sharp offer PIN release with their Universal Print ready printer models,” Microsoft explained.

Microsoft Brings Windows 11's Universal Print Capabilities to Windows 10

Microsoft has also added support for Print Support Application (PSA) on Windows 10 PCs. It allows printer manufacturers to customize the printing experience with additional features and workflows such as an accounting code or a watermark. This capability eliminates the need to download custom drivers, and IT admins can install these PSA directly from the Microsoft Store.

Microsoft Endpoint Manager adds Universal Print settings

In addition to PSA support, this update enables organizations to configure Universal Print settings in Microsoft Endpoint Manager. This feature makes it easier for administrators to provision Universal Print printers to each Windows 10 machine. They can track the progress of printer provisioning policies via the Microsoft Endpoint Manager admin portal.

Microsoft Brings Windows 11's Universal Print Capabilities to Windows 10

Lastly, Microsoft has announced that native support for PDF, PWG-Raster, and PCLm printers is now available for Windows 10 devices. Moreover, this release brings consistent support for the standards-based Mopria printing protocol. It provides seamless printing and scanning functionality between mobile devices and Mopria-certified printers. The company is also adding hole punch, stapling, and other print finishing options to several printer models.

Microsoft says that these new Universal Print capabilities are rolling out to Windows 10 version 21H2 or greater (build 19044.1806). The Universal Print service is available at no additional cost to customers with Microsoft 365 enterprise and education subscriptions, and you can check out our explainer post for more details.