Unlock the Power of Apple’s Visual Look Up: A Handy Guide

With the introduction of iOS 16, Apple delivered something truly magical: Visual Look Up. Imagine this - your iPhone or iPad can identify objects, landmarks, plants, animals, and even works of art in your photos, all in an instant! Whether you’re trying to figure out what breed your neighbour’s dog is or curious about a flower you just spotted, Visual Look Up is here to help. Let’s explore what it is, how it works, and how you can make the most of it!

What is Visual Look Up?

Visual Look Up is like having a smart encyclopedia built right into your iPhone or iPad. It uses advanced machine learning to analyse the objects in your photos and provide helpful information.

It’s similar to Google Lens but designed specifically for Apple users. The best part? There’s nothing to download, it’s built straight into your Photos app.

How to Use Visual Look Up

Getting started with Visual Look Up is as simple as taking a picture. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Take a Photo: Snap a picture of something you want to learn more about, a beautiful plant, an unfamiliar dog breed, or an intriguing landmark.

2. Open the Photo: Go to the Photos app and open the picture you’ve just taken.

3. Look for the Sparkle Icon: If Visual Look Up recognises something in the photo, you’ll see a small “sparkle” or star-like icon on the info button (a little “i” in a circle). Tap it!

4. Explore the Details: Once you tap the info button, you’ll see an option like Look Up [Object Name]. For instance, it might say “Look Up Dog” or “Look Up Plant.” Tap that, and voilà...you’ll see information, suggestions, and links to learn more.

Exciting Ways to Use Visual Look Up

Here are some practical (and fun!) examples of how you can use this feature in everyday life:

1. Identify Plants and Flowers

Ever spotted a stunning plant while on a walk and wondered what it was? Snap a photo, and Visual Look Up will tell you the species. Ideal for gardeners or nature lovers.

2. Recognise Dog or Cat Breeds

Curious about a cute dog or cat you’ve just met? Visual Look Up can identify common breeds so you can impress your friends with your newfound knowledge.

3. Learn About Landmarks

Exploring a new city? Point your camera at a monument or famous building, and Visual Look Up will give you its name, history, and interesting details. It’s like having a pocket tour guide!

4. Discover Art

Found a beautiful painting at a gallery or online? Visual Look Up can help you learn about the artist, the artwork’s title, and its story.

5. Identify Everyday Objects

Can’t remember the name of a specific gadget or item? Visual Look Up might just save the day by identifying it and even suggesting related information.

Tips for Getting the Best Results

• Good Lighting is Key: Make sure your photo is clear and well-lit to help Visual Look Up work at its best.

• Experiment with Angles: If it doesn’t recognise something, try taking the picture from a different angle or zoom in closer.

• Works with Screenshots: Seen something interesting online or in a post? Take a screenshot and use Visual Look Up on it.

• Combine with Live Text: If there’s text in the image (like on a sign or label), you can use Live Text to select and search it alongside Visual Look Up.

What Devices Support Visual Look Up?

Visual Look Up works on iPhones and iPads running iOS 16 or later. However, you’ll need a device with the A12 Bionic chip or newer, which includes:

• iPhone XR and later

• iPad (8th generation and later)

• iPad Pro (all models with A12 or later)

Why You’ll Love It

Visual Look Up isn’t just a feature—it’s a gateway to discovery. Whether you’re a trivia buff, an aspiring botanist, or just curious about the world, it helps you uncover more about the things around you.

So, the next time you’re out exploring or browsing your photo gallery, give it a try! You might be amazed at what you’ll uncover.

What will you look up first? 🌟