Most of you must be aware of the app called “Shazam” that allows users to identify songs just by recording a few seconds of it (with or without the lyrics). If that app satisfies you auditorily, Google Lens is more like a visual counterpart. Google Lens allows is an app that allows you to explore everything around you in a new and fascinating way. It is generally described as an image recognition technology app that allows users to get relevant information related to the object identified by the app’s visual analysis based on a neural network. All you need to do is to scan an object and the app will analyze and provide you relevant results.

How Google Lens Works?

Google Lens works like a gem but is not as complicated as it sounds. You can download the app for free from  Google Play Store. It is also available for iOS devices but you can access the app in a very different way. Once downloaded, you can start using the app without passing through any registration. Interestingly, Google Lens comes with a very simple interface. Located below the screen are five icons including the Auto, Translate, Text, Shopping, and Dining. Each comes with its own special function. The app is set to Auto by default but you can switch to other icons anytime.

Google Lens comes with its own camera that allows users to point and shoot. When set in Auto, you can literally shoot any item. Once identified by the system, the app will generate relevant results related to the object. The app will not give you the actual answer but the closest recommendations. It will populate results that might prompt you to various websites such as Google Search, Wikipedia, YouTube, and many others. Google Lens will recognize restaurants, clubs, cafes, and bars, too, presenting you with a pop-up window showing reviews, address details and opening times.

More Than Just Image Recognition

Wonderfully, Google Lens is more than just an image recognition app. It comes with multiple functions that are surprisingly extremely beneficial. One of which is the Shopping mode. The app will not just help you scan QR and Bar Codes but it also provides you relevant results by just simply taking the photo of the object. This will provide you brands and even prices. You can also take the app on restaurants and switch to Dining mode. This app allows you to see popular dishes on a restaurant menu based on reviews from Google Maps. The app can also be integrated with other popular Google products like Google Photos, Google Assistant, and many others.

In addition to that, the app also allows you to translate texts. All you need to do is to switch to Translate mode, point your phone at text and, with Google Translate plugging in, it instantly translates text in front of your very eyes. With Text Mode, users can point their phone’s camera at text, then highlight that text within Google Lens, and copy it to use on your phone. You can also use the photos in your gallery and let the app identifies it. This app also allows you to identify animals and plants. That’s how impressive this app is and definitely something you must have on your device.

The Verdict

Unlike most Google products, Google Lens works as a standalone app. You don’t need a Google Account to use it but you can always integrate this app with other Google products such as Google Translate, Google Maps, and many others. Appearance-wise, the app comes with a simple and easy-to-navigate interface which makes it ideal for everyone. If you are an iOS user, you can access Google Lens through the Google Photos app. Simply tap the Google Lens icon on the search bar and you’re good to go. Google Lens is available for Android devices absolutely for free. Have fun exploring!

Download Google Lens