Windows 11 AI introduces Google Lens-like OCR for effortless text extraction from images

Microsoft has announced a new update for its Windows 11 applications, introducing advanced AI capabilities to optimize Optical Character Recognition (OCR) in both the Camera and Snipping Tool apps. This development promises to streamline the user experience by effortlessly extracting and copying text from images or screenshots.

The Camera app, in particular, is set to undergo a remarkable transformation. With this update, users can now scan text directly through the camera lens, significantly benefiting tablet users. Microsoft’s proprietary AI technology, potentially influenced by their collaboration with OpenAI, powers the OCR capabilities of the Windows Camera.

In addition to text scanning, the Camera app will also offer an option to redact sensitive information before sharing edited images. This feature takes into account the growing need for data privacy and ensures that users have complete control over the information they share.

Meanwhile, the Snipping Tool has already rolled out its “Text Actions” feature, leveraging the AI capabilities of Windows 11 to identify text in captured screenshots. This feature enables users to select and copy text directly from images. To take advantage of Text Actions, users need only click the designated button in the toolbar.

Upon clicking the button, Microsoft’s system will automatically highlight selectable text, which users can effortlessly copy using the mouse. To further enhance efficiency, the Snipping Tool also provides convenient shortcuts like Ctrl + A and Ctrl + C for copying text from scanned images.

Excitingly, both the Snipping Tool and the Camera app will soon offer an additional feature—the ability to conceal or redact sensitive details such as email addresses or phone numbers before sharing edited screenshots. This feature ensures that users can confidently share information without compromising privacy.

With these advanced AI capabilities integrated into the Windows 11 applications, Microsoft aims to revolutionize the OCR process and provide users with an efficient and seamless experience. Whether it’s scanning text through the camera or extracting text from screenshots, Windows 11 users can now enjoy enhanced convenience and productivity.