There are various methods available to extract text from images sent to you via WhatsApp, whether it’s for the purpose of easier copying, sharing with others, keeping it readily accessible, or enhancing legibility. This can be particularly useful when dealing with official documents like IDs and contracts, among other scenarios.
The good news is that converting the text from images is relatively simple, almost as easy as copying text from standard documents or PDF files. We will guide you on how to achieve this on your mobile device, depending on the specific device you own. Rest assured, it is simpler than you might imagine, and you won’t necessarily need to download additional apps specialized in image-to-PDF conversions or similar, as we’ll explore alternative methods.
Do it on Android mobiles
Certain mobile devices, such as Google Pixel, Motorola, and some other brands, offer the ability to copy text from images directly within the application on models running Android 13. This feature proves to be highly practical when it comes to extracting data from documents, images containing extensive information, and various other use cases. By following these steps, you can save considerable effort that would otherwise be spent on manual copying:
1. Open the image sent to you via WhatsApp.
2. Access the multitasking menu on your device.
3. Locate and select the “Select” option in the lower right corner.
4. Highlight the desired text within the image.
5. Tap on “Copy.”
6. Voila! You have successfully copied the text from the WhatsApp image.
Please note that this functionality may vary based on the specific model and Android version of your device.
If you can’t do it, you still have Google Lens
If your mobile device does not provide the capability or you are unable to locate the necessary option, an alternative solution is to use Google Lens. By utilizing this application, you simply need to open the image received via WhatsApp and follow the steps outlined below. In case Google Lens is not installed on your phone, you can download it from your mobile app store.
- Open the image sent to you via WhatsApp.
- If you don’t have Google Lens installed on your phone, you can download it from your mobile app store.
- Launch the Google Lens app.
- Within the app, select the option to import or capture an image.
- Open the WhatsApp image within the Google Lens app.
- Google Lens will analyze the image and highlight any text it detects.
- Tap on the highlighted text to select and copy it.
How it’s done on the iPhone
To extract text from WhatsApp images on your iPhone, the most effective method is to access your phone’s gallery. Simply follow these steps:
1. Open your iPhone’s gallery.
2. Locate the WhatsApp folder within the gallery.
3. Select the desired image containing the text.
4. Tap on the button that appears below the image.
5. Highlight the text by selecting it, causing it to turn blue.
6. Choose the “Copy” option.
7. The text is now copied and can be pasted wherever you need it.
The news that comes to WhatsApp on iPhone
A few months ago, WhatsApp introduced a new feature that allows users to extract text from images sent or received on the platform. This functionality works similarly to copying text from a PDF, Word document, or other content formats. However, please note that to use this feature, you must meet certain requirements.
If you have the latest WhatsApp update for iOS 23.5.77, which can be downloaded from the Apple Store for iPhone users, you can utilize this text extraction feature directly within the app. It’s important to note that the update may not be available on all devices immediately, as the implementation process may take some time.
To extract text from images on devices that support this feature in WhatsApp, follow these steps:
1. Press and hold the desired area of the image to select the text.
2. Wait for the text to be automatically recognized and highlighted.
3. Various functions will appear, including “Copy and paste.”
4. Tap on “Copy and paste” to select it (you can also choose to translate the text directly).
5. The text will now be copied and ready to be pasted wherever you need it.
If this option has not yet been rolled out to your mobile device, you can still extract text from images by using your phone’s gallery until the feature becomes available. Choose the method that is most convenient for you while you wait for the feature to be fully implemented on your device.