How to Fax from iPhone: A Comprehensive Guide
In today’s digital age, it may seem like faxing has become obsolete. However, there are still numerous situations where sending a fax is the preferred or even the only accepted method of communication. Fortunately, even with smartphones like the iPhone, it is possible to send and receive faxes. This article will provide a comprehensive guide on how to fax from iPhone, covering everything from selecting a fax app to troubleshooting potential issues.
Choosing a Fax App
The first step in faxing from iPhone is to choose a reliable fax app. There are several reputable options available in the App Store, each offering varying features and subscription plans. Here are some of the most popular fax apps for iPhone:
- eFax: A well-established app with a large user base. Offers a 30-day free trial and then charges a monthly subscription fee.
- Fax Burner: A pay-as-you-go app without any subscription fees. Charges a per-page fee for sending and receiving faxes.
- HelloFax: An app with a user-friendly interface and a range of features. Offers both free and paid subscription plans.
- iFax: An app with advanced features such as cloud storage integration and OCR (optical character recognition). Requires a paid subscription.
- Fax.Plus: A budget-friendly app with a limited number of features. Offers a free plan with limited usage and a paid plan for unlimited faxes.
Setting Up the Fax App
Once you have selected a fax app, you need to set it up on your iPhone. The setup process may vary slightly depending on the app you choose, but generally involves creating an account, providing your contact information, and selecting a fax number.
Sending a Fax
To send a fax from iPhone, follow these steps:
- Open the fax app on your iPhone.
- Tap the "Compose" or "New Fax" button.
- Enter the recipient’s fax number.
- Attach the document you want to send as a fax. You can select a document from your iPhone’s storage, take a photo of a document, or scan a document using the app’s built-in scanner.
- Add a cover page if desired.
- Review the details of the fax and tap "Send."
Receiving a Fax
If you have subscribed to a paid fax service, you may be able to receive faxes directly on your iPhone. When a fax is received, you will receive a notification on your iPhone. You can then open the fax app to view and download the fax.
Troubleshooting Common Problems
- Fax Not Sending: Make sure the recipient’s fax number is correct and that the document you are trying to send is in a supported format (e.g., PDF, JPEG). Check your internet connection and ensure that the fax app has permission to access your device’s storage.
- Fax Not Received: If you are not receiving faxes, check if your subscription is active and that your fax number is set up correctly in the fax app. Contact your fax service provider to verify that your account is in good standing.
- Fax Quality is Poor: The quality of the fax may depend on the quality of the original document, the resolution settings in the fax app, and the recipient’s fax machine. Try sending the fax again at a higher resolution or adjust the settings in the fax app.
- Cost of Faxing: The cost of faxing from iPhone varies depending on the fax app and the subscription plan you choose. Pay-as-you-go apps typically charge a per-page fee, while subscription-based apps offer unlimited faxing for a monthly or annual fee.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Is it possible to fax from iPhone without a fax number?
A: Yes, you can use a fax app to send faxes without a dedicated fax number. The fax app will assign you a temporary fax number for sending and receiving faxes.
Q: Can I send faxes internationally from iPhone?
A: Yes, most fax apps allow you to send faxes internationally. However, there may be additional charges for international faxes.
Q: Is faxing from iPhone secure?
A: Reputable fax apps use encryption to protect the privacy and security of your faxes. However, it is important to note that faxes are not as secure as other digital communication methods, such as email or instant messaging.
Q: What are the alternatives to faxing from iPhone?
A: If faxing is not an option, you can consider sending documents via email, using a document sharing service, or sending a scanned copy via regular mail.
Conclusion
Faxing from iPhone is a convenient and effective way to send and receive important documents. By choosing a reliable fax app and following the steps outlined in this guide, you can ensure that your faxes are sent and received successfully. Remember to troubleshoot any issues that may arise and consider the alternatives to faxing if necessary.
