Once you’ve selected the relevant mode, simply aim your camera at the object you’d like Google Lens to search with. You may also see a dialog box explaining that Google Lens will continuously try to identify objects whenever it’s running. If it’s your first time using the app, you may be asked to grant Google permission to access your photos. From the app’s home screen, tap the camera icon to the right of the main search bar (this is sadly missing in the iPad version of the app). If you want to search in real time using your iPhone, start by launching the Google app. How to use Google Lens in real-time on your iPhone 1. If that’s not a problem, though, just download the latest version of the Google Photos app (opens in new tab) from the App Store.īoth apps will request access to your photo library the first time you open them or try to use the Google Lens tool, and it’s necessary to grant this so that Google can run your snaps through its servers.Įven if you’re using Google Lens in real time, several of the features require you to shoot a still of your subject before the software is able to analyze it. The key difference, though, is that Google Photos doesn't allow you to search in real-time with your iPhone or iPad camera.

It also incorporates Google Lens: open any image from your camera roll in the Google Photos app and with just a tap you’ll be able to analyze it for information using Google Lens.

Google Photos is Google’s cloud photo backup service, and it includes a whole host of neat features for editing and organizing your images online. Alternatively, you can install the Google Photos app, which is the best option if you're planning to use an iPad.

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