Google Lens turns your phone camera into a search tool. Point it at a sign in another language, a plant in your garden or a page of notes, and Lens tells you what it is or lets you copy the text. It is free, already on most Android phones, and far more useful than most people realise. Here are eight practical ways to use it every day.
Key takeaways
- Open Lens from the Google app, the Google search bar, Google Photos or the camera on many phones.
- Lens can translate, copy text, identify objects and help with homework.
- Text copied with Lens can be pasted on your computer when signed in to the same account in Chrome.
- It also works on photos and screenshots you already have.
What this guide covers
- How to open Google Lens
- 8 useful things Lens can do
- Use Lens on existing photos
- Privacy and accuracy tips
- FAQs
How to open Google Lens
| Where | How |
|---|---|
| Google search bar / Google app | Tap the Lens (camera) icon |
| Google Photos | Open a photo and tap the Lens button |
| Phone camera | Many Android cameras show a Lens icon or a Lens mode |
| Chrome | Long-press an image and choose “Search with Google Lens” |
| Circle to Search | On supported phones, long-press the home button or navigation bar, then circle anything on screen |
8 useful things Google Lens can do
1. Translate signs, menus and labels
Choose Translate and point the camera at the text. Lens places the translation over the original, which is perfect for travel, product labels and documents.
2. Copy text from paper
Choose Text, select the words, and tap Copy. You can paste phone numbers, addresses or whole paragraphs instead of typing them.
3. Identify plants and animals
Point Lens at a flower, tree, bird or dog breed to see likely matches and links to learn more.
4. Find products and prices
Scan shoes, furniture or gadgets to find similar items and shopping results online.
5. Get homework help
The Homework option shows explanations and related resources for maths and science problems. Use it to understand the steps, not just the answer.
6. Scan QR codes and barcodes
Lens reads QR codes and barcodes and shows the link or product before you open it, which lets you check where it leads first.
7. Save contact details and events
Scan a business card or poster and Lens offers to add the phone number to contacts or the date to your calendar.
8. Learn about landmarks
Point Lens at a building or monument to see its name and background information.
Use Lens on photos you already have
Lens is not limited to the live camera. Open any photo or screenshot in Google Photos and tap Lens to copy text, translate or search. This is useful for screenshots of addresses, recipes or class notes.
Privacy and accuracy tips
- Lens sends images to Google to analyse them. Avoid scanning sensitive documents such as ID cards or bank cards.
- Check translations and identifications before relying on them for anything important; Lens can make mistakes.
- You can review and delete Lens activity in your Google Account activity settings.
- Before opening a link from a QR code, check that the address looks correct.
Tip: Good light and a steady hand give much better results. Tap the screen to focus on small text.
FAQs
Is Google Lens free?
Yes. It is free and works on most Android phones through the Google app or Google Photos.
Does Lens work offline?
Most Lens features need an internet connection.
What is Circle to Search?
A feature on supported Android phones that lets you circle anything on your screen to search it with Google, using Lens technology.
Sources: Google Lens · Google Search Help. Menu names can differ slightly between phone brands and Android versions.