The document scanning feature on the iPhone is a lifesaver in various situations. Thanks to its seamless integration with other apps, you can instantly send scans via email, share them in messengers, or save them to the cloud. Don’t know how to scan on an iPhone? Let’s explore all the methods in detail with step-by-step instructions.
Why iPhone is a Great Tool for Document Scanning
The document scanner on the iPhone is a feature that first appeared in iOS 11.0. With each new generation of smartphones, it has improved and expanded its capabilities. Today, you have a full-fledged copy center right in your pocket.
The scanning process takes just seconds. Modern iPhone models are equipped with powerful cameras and intelligent image processing algorithms. The scanner is useful for work, study, and everyday tasks.
How to Scan a Document on iPhone Using the Notes App
The Notes app isn’t just for storing text—it can also scan documents on your iPhone or iPad in high quality. With it, you can quickly and easily create digital copies of important papers that will always be at hand. Thanks to the editing function, you can easily adjust size, contrast, and other parameters. Here’s how to create a new note:
- Open the Notes app on your iPhone.
- Tap the new note icon in the bottom right corner of the screen.
- Select the scanning function.
- Frame the document, ensuring it fits entirely within the frame.
- The app will highlight the edges with a yellow border.
- You can manually adjust the corners by dragging them.
- Tap the shutter button to capture the scan.
The iPhone’s document scanning feature also includes editing options. Simply tap the thumbnail to crop it, apply filters, or rotate the image to the desired angle. Then, save the scan by tapping “Done” in the top left corner of the screen. You can choose where to save the file, such as iCloud Drive or your device’s storage.
Scanning Documents on iPhone Using the Files App
The Files app helps you manage files stored in iCloud Drive or on your device’s internal memory. But that’s not all—it also offers scanning capabilities. Don’t know how to scan a document on an iPhone using Files? It’s as simple as hitting the jackpot at the best Canada online casino:
- Open the Files app on your iPhone.
- Select the folder where the scans will be saved.
- Tap the three-dot icon in the top right corner and choose “Scan Documents.”
- Point the camera at the document, ensuring it fits entirely within the frame.
- Adjust the borders manually if needed.
- Tap the shutter button to complete the process.
By default, the Files app saves scanned documents in PDF format. However, you can convert them to JPEG or other formats using third-party apps from the App Store.
Using Third-Party Apps for Document Scanning
In addition to built-in tools, the App Store offers a variety of third-party apps with advanced features. Some popular options include:
- Adobe Scan
- Microsoft Lens
- CamScanner
- Scanner Pro
- Genius Scan
Your choice depends on your goals and needs, so explore their features and integration capabilities.
Adobe Scan: Professional Scanning
How to scan a document on iPhone for professional-quality results? Use Adobe Scan. This powerful app features automatic edge detection, using intelligent algorithms to recognize and crop documents accurately.
You’ll have access to tools for adjusting brightness, contrast, sharpness, and more. Thanks to optical character recognition (OCR), you can extract text and use it in other apps. Adobe Document Cloud ensures access to your files from any device. The simple interface makes it easy for first-time users to scan documents on the iPhone.
Microsoft Lens: Scanning and Text Recognition
Microsoft offers its own scanning app for Apple users. Its scanner works with:
- Documents
- Business cards
- Photos
- Whiteboards or presentations
The OCR feature accurately recognizes text on scanned documents. Additionally, Microsoft Translator allows instant translation into other languages. Syncing with OneDrive saves storage space and provides access to files across devices.
How to Scan Documents Using the iPhone Camera
Instead of scanning, some users simply take photos of documents. However, there are key differences between a photo and a proper scan:
- Photos may include shadows and uneven borders.
- Photos are typically saved in JPEG format, while PDFs are more convenient for further use.
- Built-in and specialized scanning tools offer additional features not available in the Camera app.
Starting with iOS 16, the document scanning feature is available directly in the Camera app. Point the camera at the document, wait for the app to detect and highlight it, then tap the shutter button and select “Done.” The scan will be saved as a PDF.
Text Recognition (OCR) on iPhone
OCR is a complex process that analyzes images and identifies text areas. It recognizes individual letters, numbers, and other characters, allowing you to copy, edit, and use the text in other apps.
On iPhones running iOS 16 or later, OCR is integrated into the Camera, Photos, and Notes apps. It works alongside the Live Text feature to extract text from images. OCR also makes it easy to translate foreign text, correct typos, and format as needed.
How to Edit and Enhance Scans on iPhone
The Notes app provides simple editing tools for scans:
- Cropping
- Filters
- Rotation
- Color modes
Increase contrast to make text sharper, or use a black-and-white filter to remove unwanted shades. If the text appears too faint, adjust the brightness. To avoid glare and shadows, ensure proper lighting and angle.
How to Save and Send Scanned Documents
You can send your scans:
- Via email
- Using AirDrop
- Through messengers
- To cloud services like iCloud Drive, Dropbox, Google Drive, or OneDrive
Before sending, you can add a signature. The process is similar across all services:
- Open the scanned document.
- Tap the “Share” or “Send” button.
- Choose the sharing method.
- Select the recipient and send the document.
Sharing scanned documents on iPhone is straightforward and intuitive. Share your digital copies with colleagues, friends, and partners effortlessly.
