Overview
XHTML-Print is a simple XHTML based datastream suitable for printing as well as for display. It is largely based on the W3C's XHTML Basic with the addition of support for Cascading Style Sheets (CSS). It is specifically targeted for printing in environments where it is not feasible or desirable to install the printer-specific driver.
The project was developed collaboratively by the Printer Working Group (PWG) and later transitioned to the World Wide Web Consortium (W3C) for further development and standardization.
Design Philosophy
XHTML-Print is not intended to provide strict layout consistency and repeatability across different printers. Instead, it provides a simple, broadly supportable print datastream where content preservation and reproduction are the goal.
"Content is King."— XHTML-Print Design Philosophy
This philosophy reflects the core principle that the accurate transmission and reproduction of content matters more than pixel-perfect layout consistency across different devices.
Technical Foundation
XHTML Basic
Built on W3C's XHTML Basic, providing a clean and well-structured markup foundation that works across a variety of printing devices.
CSS Print Profile
Extended with CSS support through the CSS Print Profile, enabling styled output while remaining lightweight and portable.
Driver-Free
Designed specifically for environments where printer-specific drivers cannot or should not be installed — mobile, embedded, and shared printing scenarios.
Standards Organizations
History
XHTML-Print was originally developed within the Printer Working Group (PWG). At the January 2004 meeting of the PWG, as recorded in the minutes of XHTML-Print discussion, the PWG resolved to pass work on XHTML-Print to the W3C for continued development and standardization.
The transition reflected the growing recognition of XHTML-Print as a broadly applicable web standard, not just a printing industry specification. The W3C's stewardship aligned the standard with broader web technologies and ensured wider adoption.