Learn the Different Ways to Use OCR to Convert Images to Text

The popularity of images as a digital medium has exponentially increased over the years. One of the main contributing factors is the craze for updating pictures on social media platforms. Besides this, multiple online platforms require users to upload documents and essential files in the form of digital images. However, there are numerous instances when people need to copy the text present in an image. For instance, there may be an essential phrase or paragraph present in a screenshot that they require, or they wish to copy the textual content present in the image.

Thankfully, there are numerous ways following which users of all major operating systems, including macOS, and Windows, can convert the text present in pictures into actual text that can be copied and pasted without hassle. One of the most popular ways of doing so is by using OCR. According to Geek Flare, OCR or Optical Character Recognition refers to the pattern recognition AI-based tech that is used for identifying the text present in an image and making it editable. This feature is very handy, especially when users wish to make important digital data in pictures editable, such as cash invoices, receipts, etc. This article will cover numerous ways in which users can use OCR technology to convert digital images into editable text. Let us dive right into it:

Using Online OCR Converters:

One of the most foolproof ways of turning information in a digital image into digital text using OCR is by using online OCR converters. There are numerous online platforms available that facilitate users to utilize OCR technology to convert non-editable text into editable text for free. All the user needs to have is a web browser and a stable Internet connection. Moreover, individuals can access online OCR converters on any device, including smartphones and tablets. 

For instance, NewOCR.com is a free OCR service that allows users to upload an image and acquire text in editable format. All the user needs to do is upload the image on the platform, click on the “Preview” option and then click on the “OCR” option to process it. Once the processing is complete, users can copy or download the editable text as a TXT, DOC, or PDF file. It is an excellent outlet using which individuals can acquire editable text from images within a few minutes.

Using OCR Apps:

All major platforms, including Windows and iOS, offer support for third-party OCR applications, each of which packs in top-tier text recognition features and functionalities. For instance, if you are a macOS user who wishes to turn a picture into text, there are numerous applications you can download and use. Prizmo is one such utility. It performs as a robust scanner that efficiently converts image text into editable text within seconds. All the user needs to do is open the app, select the image source, adjust the image’s sharpness or contrast to enhance readability, and click on the “Recognize” button to start the OCR process. Another powerful OCR utility that macOS users can opt for is TextSniper. It is deemed a universal OCR tool capable of capturing any part of the screen and automatically recognizing the text inside the screenshot. 

Similarly, numerous applications offer Windows users the option to turn image text into editable text using OCR technology. For instance, Microsoft OneNote features advanced OCR functionality, which works equally well on pictures and handwritten notes. All the user needs to do to acquire editable text from a picture is open it in OneNote, right-click on the inserted picture and select the “Copy Text From Picture” option. Besides OneNote, users can also opt to use SimpleOCR. It is a paid OCR application that features a 2-week trial period. If you are searching for a simple app that gets the job done of turning image text into readable text, you can consider using SimpleOCR. 

Using OCR Chrome Extensions:

Google Chrome is used by billions of Windows and macOS users every day to perform web-based activities. The Chrome App Store features tons of useful extensions that facilitate users to perform specific tasks. The plethora of extensions also includes OCR extensions which facilitate users to turn image text into editable text quickly and efficiently. Two of the most popular OCR extensions available for Chrome users include Copyfish and Project Naptha. All the user needs to do to use these extensions is install them. Once either of the extensions has been installed, it makes every image’s text selectable. Even though OCR Chrome extensions are not as efficient as dedicated OCR apps, they are great for performing basic text recognition and conversion tasks. 

If you are a macOS or Windows user, who wishes to convert the information present in an image into editable text, refer to one of the aforementioned OCR methods to get the job done quickly and efficiently.