You can also access the Google Lens tool in different ways, the easiest of which is to go to Google Assistant and then to the explore menu, where you will notice the Lens icon next to the microphone icon. Google Lens is also available as a standalone app that can be downloaded from the Google Play Store.
Regardless, as indicated by the title of our article above, we will discuss a range of awesome features that you should know about in Google Lens, and how you can leverage these features to gather information from your surroundings. So without further ado, here are 6 useful ways and features to collect information from your surroundings using Google Lens:
1. Translate Words and More:
One of the most useful things with Google Lens is translating words without the hassle of typing. To use this feature, simply place the camera in front of the paper or book containing the desired word to be translated, ensure the camera is focused correctly so the word appears clearly on the screen, then activate Google Lens and keep the camera steady for a few seconds until the word is highlighted in white on the camera screen.
At this point, a point will appear next to the word or highlighted text on the screen. Click on this point to capture an image of the highlighted text. You can now click on any word in the text to highlight it in blue, and you will see a list of options to interact with the selected word, such as copying the word, searching for its meanings on Google, or even translating it to the desired language.
2. Track Shipping Packages:
Another feature you can benefit from with Google Lens is tracking shipping packages. Simply place the camera or direct it towards the shipping package details, then activate Google Lens. Wait for the details to be recognized, then click on the point that appears on the screen. You will then see a URL address for the USPS tracking page where you can click to monitor the progress of your package shipment.
3. Save Business Card Addresses Directly:
This feature is quite common among users who prefer using Google Lens to input contact details from business cards without the need to write anything. Simply hold the business card, direct the camera towards it, and activate Google Lens. Wait for the text on the card to be recognized, then click on the point that appears on the screen. The card details will be displayed at the bottom of the screen, with the option to visit the business website or save the details to your phone contacts list. If the business is listed online and on Google Maps on the card, you will also see an option to find the business on the map.
4. Find Details About the Camera-Focused Content:
To do this, simply activate Google Lens and point the camera screen at any object around you that you want to learn more about, whether it’s a painting, plant, or animal. Lens will analyze the data, identify the object, and provide you with plenty of online resources for more information. You can receive brief information or delve deeper into the topic by finding a trusted website with sufficient information about the object.
5. Add Events to Google Calendar:
With Google Lens, you can also add upcoming events directly to your Google Calendar. Activate the Lens and direct your phone camera to a ticket or event invitation you plan to attend. The card details will be recognized, and an option will appear at the bottom of the screen to add the event date and time to your Google Calendar for a timely reminder.
6. Open a Link on Your Computer from Your Phone:
Lastly, with Google Lens, you can detect website addresses from your computer and access them directly. Activate the Lens, then point the camera at your computer screen and the address bar in your web browser. Google Lens will then copy the URL address from the computer screen. Click on the point that appears below the copied web address, and you will see options to either go to the website on your phone or share the URL address with your phone contacts.
Final Word:
To be completely honest, Google Lens is far from perfect at the moment, but this technology is constantly being updated to provide a better user experience. In its current embodiment, you can use it in a variety of ways to get more information about your surroundings, and what we mentioned earlier illustrates several ways to use Google Lens effectively.
