How to use Live Text on iPhone

Complete guide with multiple methods and troubleshooting for Live Text on iPhone.

7-10 min read
Expert Verified
Last Updated: August 2025

Quick Answer

Live Text on iPhone allows users to interact with text in photos, enabling them to copy, paste, look up, and translate text directly from images. To use Live Text, simply point your camera at text or open a photo containing text, and tap the Live Text icon that appears.

Easy⏱ 7-10 min read

Prerequisites & Requirements

Before using Live Text on your iPhone, ensure you meet the following requirements:
  • •iPhone models: iPhone XS or later (iPhone XR, 11, 12, 13, 14, and 15 are supported).
  • •Operating System: iOS 15 or later.
  • •Camera permissions enabled: Go to Settings > Privacy > Camera and ensure the toggle for your camera app is turned on.
  • •Good lighting conditions for optimal text recognition.

Method 1: Using Live Text with the Camera

This method is ideal for capturing text in real-time using your iPhone's camera.
  • •Step 1: Open the Camera app by tapping the Camera icon on your Home Screen or swiping left on the Lock Screen.
  • •Step 2: Point your camera at the text you want to capture. Look for the Live Text icon (a small text box with lines) that appears in the bottom right corner of the camera view.
  • •Step 3: Tap the Live Text icon. The text will be highlighted, and you can select it by tapping and holding to copy, look up, or translate.
  • •Step 4: If the Live Text icon does not appear, ensure the text is clear and well-lit. Adjust the camera distance or angle as needed.

For iOS 16 and later

In iOS 16, Live Text has been enhanced with additional features.
  • •You can now use Live Text in videos. Pause the video at the desired text, and the Live Text icon will appear.
  • •Live Text can also translate text directly from the camera view.

For iOS 15

In iOS 15, Live Text primarily works with still images.
  • •Ensure that your iPhone is running iOS 15 by checking Settings > General > About > Software Version.

Method 2: Using Live Text in Photos

This method allows you to extract text from images already saved in your Photos app.
  • •Step 1: Open the Photos app by tapping the Photos icon on your Home Screen.
  • •Step 2: Select the photo containing the text you want to use.
  • •Step 3: Tap the Live Text icon that appears in the bottom right corner of the photo.
  • •Step 4: Highlight the text you want to copy or interact with, then choose from options like Copy, Look Up, or Translate.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you encounter issues while using Live Text, consider the following solutions:
  • •Error: 'Live Text not available' - Solution: Ensure your iPhone model supports Live Text and that you are running iOS 15 or later.
  • •Issue: Live Text icon does not appear - Fix: Check if the text is clear and well-lit. Adjust your camera angle or distance.
  • •Problem: Text is not recognized correctly - Workaround: Try using a different font or ensure the text is not obscured by other objects.

Advanced Tips & Shortcuts

Enhance your Live Text experience with these tips:
  • •Keyboard shortcut: Use the 'Copy' gesture (tap and hold) to quickly copy text from Live Text.
  • •Hidden feature: You can translate text directly by selecting 'Translate' after highlighting the text.
  • •Tip: Use Live Text to quickly save contact information by tapping on a phone number or email address in an image.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common pitfalls:

Expert Tips

To maximize the effectiveness of Live Text, always ensure your iPhone is updated and that you are using clear images.