How to Copy Text from a Picture or Document on iPhone

by Ori Otokpa · June 13, 2022

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The new software updates on iPhones have made life easier for Apple users. The Live text feature is one of the latest features accompanying the iOS 15 (and above) software update.

Live Text allows you to copy texts directly from pictures without typing them out. This feature allows your iPhone to identify information from your photos app and physical and online images.

Now, with a simple tap, you can copy texts to make calls, translate languages, send emails and more.

Let’s show you how!

Activate Live Text

Before you can enjoy this feature, you need to activate it. Follow these steps to activate Live Text on your iPhone.

First, launch the Settings app and select General.

Next, tap Language & Region and toggle the Live Text switch to activate.

Copy and paste texts from an image

Firstly, launch the Photo App. Then, open the image with the Text.

Next, press and hold or double-tap any word until a menu appears above it. Then drag the circular grab pointers over the extent of the text you want to copy. Or, tap Select all on the menu to highlight all the Text.

Afterwards, select Copy from the menu. Next, open your preferred app and paste the copied information.

Copying texts from physical images, documents, or signs

Launch your iPhone’s Camera. Then, focus the camera on the picture, document, or poster.

Next, tap the scanner icon at the lower right corner of the screen – it should turn yellow.

Your screen will take an initial photo and prompt you to swipe or tap a word to select the Text. You can do either of them. After swiping or selecting your Text (or tapping Select All from the menu), tap Copy.