In a significant update for Windows 10 and 11 users, Microsoft has introduced Optical Character Recognition (OCR) capabilities to its Photos app. This feature is now available to participants in the Windows Insider Program, allowing users to copy text directly from images — a functionality that has become increasingly common in mobile applications, especially since iOS 15 rolled it out back in 2021.
Microsoft has stated that this feature supports over 160 languages, making it a versatile tool for multilingual users and anyone who interacts with written content in various forms. Prior to this update, the task of extracting text often relied on third-party applications or workarounds. But now, this capability is built directly into the Photos app, providing a more seamless user experience.
Here’s a fun thought: as we navigate through our increasingly digital lives, tools like OCR in the Photos app mean we can capture fleeting moments in a text format. Imagine snapping a pic of someone’s handwritten notes during a meeting and having the ability to extract that information instantly — no more squinting at your phone screen to decipher that enigmatic scrawl!
If you’re eager to try out this new feature and are not yet a member of the Windows Insider Program, consider enrolling to get early access to updates and innovations. It’s an opportunity to engage with new technology and provide feedback that could shape its development.
For more related updates on Windows 11 features, keep an eye on the Windows forum and explore discussions on user experiences and tips for maximizing your Windows environment. With built-in functionalities getting smarter by the day, it’s an exciting time to be a Windows user!
Source: MSPoweruser Thanks to OCR, Windows' Photos app now lets you copy texts you see on an image
What is OCR?
Let’s break down this newly introduced technology. OCR, or Optical Character Recognition, is a technology that converts different types of documents, such as scanned paper documents, PDF files, or images captured by a digital camera, into editable and searchable data. Essentially, it allows you to take an image of printed or handwritten text and convert it into machine-encoded text. With this technology now integrated into the Windows Photos app, users can easily copy, edit, and use textual information found in their photos.Details of the New Feature
User-Friendly Functionality
Users can now copy text from an image simply by opening the image in the Photos app. When the app detects text, a new icon will appear at the bottom of the image. By clicking on this icon, you can choose the option to “Copy all text,” making it incredibly straightforward.Microsoft has stated that this feature supports over 160 languages, making it a versatile tool for multilingual users and anyone who interacts with written content in various forms. Prior to this update, the task of extracting text often relied on third-party applications or workarounds. But now, this capability is built directly into the Photos app, providing a more seamless user experience.
Impressive Performance
Reports from early testers indicate that the OCR functionality operates smoothly and efficiently. This is complemented by the Photos app's existing feature set, which includes a "Visual search with Bing." This feature enhances the user's ability to search for related content without needing to exit the app, further improving productivity and user satisfaction.Broader Implications
This update signals Microsoft’s ongoing commitment to enhancing its built-in applications, especially as it prepares to phase out Windows 10 in favor of Windows 11. By adding such features, Microsoft aims to bolster the functionality of core apps, ensuring that they remain relevant and competitive against third-party solutions.Here’s a fun thought: as we navigate through our increasingly digital lives, tools like OCR in the Photos app mean we can capture fleeting moments in a text format. Imagine snapping a pic of someone’s handwritten notes during a meeting and having the ability to extract that information instantly — no more squinting at your phone screen to decipher that enigmatic scrawl!
A Step Towards Enhanced Productivity
For users keen on maximizing productivity, this feature represents a small but notable improvement in how we interact with digital text. Whether you’re a student copying lecture notes from a whiteboard, a professional extracting information from printed documents, or a casual user wanting to save motivational quotes from your favorite books, the OCR functionality can save time and effort.If you’re eager to try out this new feature and are not yet a member of the Windows Insider Program, consider enrolling to get early access to updates and innovations. It’s an opportunity to engage with new technology and provide feedback that could shape its development.
Closing Thoughts
The integration of OCR into the Photos app is not just an enhancement; it's a reflection of the evolving needs of users in a world where images increasingly convey information. As the long-standing adage goes, "A picture is worth a thousand words," and now, with OCR capabilities, you can turn that picture into editable, copyable text.For more related updates on Windows 11 features, keep an eye on the Windows forum and explore discussions on user experiences and tips for maximizing your Windows environment. With built-in functionalities getting smarter by the day, it’s an exciting time to be a Windows user!
Source: MSPoweruser Thanks to OCR, Windows' Photos app now lets you copy texts you see on an image