Polaroid App Guide: Camera Controls, Photo Scanning and Hi-Print

Polaroid offers two phone apps for different tasks. The Polaroid App adds creative controls to selected cameras and can scan developed instant photos. The Polaroid Hi-Print App lets you edit a photo on your phone before printing it with a Hi-Print printer. Start with the device you own and what you want to make.

To connect a camera or scan a print, use the Polaroid App

Polaroid lists the Flip, Now+, I-2 and OneStep+ as cameras that can connect to the Polaroid App. Pairing can unlock additional creative controls, such as manual settings, a self-timer or double exposure. Available modes differ by camera model; an option shown in the app is not necessarily available on every camera.

The in-app scanner can also save a digital copy of a fully developed physical Polaroid photo for organizing and sharing. Scanning records the print you already made. It does not replace instant film or alter the original film image.

Choosing between a straightforward and a more connected camera? Read our Now and Now+ Generation 3 comparison, or browse Polaroid cameras at Megma.

To print a phone photo, use the Hi-Print App

The Polaroid Hi-Print App is designed for Hi-Print printers. Select a photo from your phone, add text, stickers or filters, and print a physical copy. It is a separate app from the Polaroid App used for instant-camera controls and scanning.

Hi-Print printers use model-specific paper cartridges. These are not interchangeable with Polaroid i-Type, 600 or Go instant film. Check the printer model and paper size before buying supplies. See Megma's Hi-Print 3x3 printer and matching 3x3 paper cartridge; current price and availability are shown on each product page.

Choose the right app in three steps

1. Check your device: for additional controls on a Flip, Now+, I-2 or OneStep+, choose the Polaroid App; for a Hi-Print printer, choose the Hi-Print App.
2. Check your goal: scan a developed instant print with the Polaroid App, or print a phone photo with the Hi-Print App.
3. Check your model: pairing, modes and consumables depend on the specific camera or printer. Follow the instructions shown in the app and supplied with your device.

Frequently asked questions

Can I scan photos made with a regular Polaroid Now or Go?

Yes. You can scan a developed physical print with the Polaroid App. The regular Now and Go are not on Polaroid's list of app-connectable cameras, so do not expect the same remote camera controls.

Is a Hi-Print photo the same as a Polaroid instant-film photo?

No. Hi-Print makes a print from a photo on your phone using its dedicated paper cartridge. An instant camera exposes physical film when you take the shot, and that film develops afterward. Their supplies and workflows are different.

Downloads and official information: The official Polaroid Apps page links to both apps on the App Store and Google Play. App features and device support can change, so check the official page and the current app instructions. For more on film, light and development, explore Polaroid Life.