How to scan documents and text to your iPhone using the notes app

• Scan documents and save the PDFs using the notes app
• Scan text from physical documents or lists with Apple’s new “Scan Text” feature
• Use Apple’s Continuity Camera to seamlessly transfer scanned documents to your Macbook

iPhones are multifunctional devices. The cell phone whose primary purpose was for calling and texting is no longer. Apple smartphone lovers use their devices for scrolling social media, online shopping, setting reminders and snoozing alarms. With the evolving digital landscape, owners can even track their workouts with Apple Watches and find missing items with AirTags.

But did you know you can also take everyday items from the real world and import them to your iPhone? Here’s how to scan documents and lists on your phone and seamlessly transfer paper trails to the online world.

How to scan documents on your iPhone

The release of iOS 11 in 2017 ushered in a new era for the iPhone notes app: scanning documents. The function has since been updated and has new features, but it was a first step toward merging the physical and digital world when it comes to documents and letters.

Here’s how to scan a document on your iPhone:

1. Open the notes app
2. Create a new note by clicking the bottom right corner
3. Tap the camera icon above the keyboard. Older iPhones may have this as a plus sign.
4. Choose “Scan Documents” which will open your iPhone’s camera
5. Capture the picture of the document you want to save. A yellow highlight over the document should indicate what is being scanned.
6. Scan another document to save multiple files or hit “Save” to exit the camera