How to Scan on an iPhone 8: A Comprehensive Guide

The iPhone 8, while not the newest kid on the block, remains a remarkably capable device. One feature often overlooked is its ability to scan documents directly using the Notes app. This eliminates the need for third-party apps in many cases and keeps your workflow streamlined and secure.

Here’s how to scan documents with your iPhone 8:

1. Open the Notes app: This is the default Apple Notes app that comes pre-installed on your iPhone.
2. Create a new note or open an existing one: You can scan into a brand-new note or add a scan to a note you’ve already started.
3. Tap the Camera icon: Located within the note, this icon presents options related to media input.
4. Select “Scan Documents”: A menu will appear. Choose “Scan Documents” from the list.
5. Position the document: The camera will activate and attempt to automatically detect the document. Ensure the document is well-lit and against a contrasting background.
6. Automatic or Manual Capture: If auto-capture is enabled (usually the default), the iPhone will automatically scan the document when it detects its edges. If not, or if you need more control, tap the shutter button to manually capture the scan.
7. Adjust the corners: After the scan, you can adjust the corners to accurately crop the document. Drag the circles on each corner to align them with the edges of the document.
8. Choose a filter (optional): You can apply different filters to enhance the scan. Options include color, grayscale, black and white, or photo.
9. Tap “Keep Scan”: If you’re satisfied with the scan, tap “Keep Scan” to save it.
10. Continue scanning or save: You can scan multiple pages by repeating steps 5-9. When you’re finished, tap “Save.”

Your scanned document is now embedded in your note. From there, you can share it, annotate it, or simply store it for later reference. The iPhone 8’s scanning capability offers a convenient and surprisingly powerful way to digitize documents on the go.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Scanning with an iPhone 8

Scanning documents using your iPhone 8 can sometimes raise a few questions. Here are 12 frequently asked questions, answered in detail, to ensure you get the most out of this handy feature.

What file format are the scans saved in?

The scans within the Notes app are saved as PDF files. This is a widely compatible format, making it easy to share and view your scanned documents on various devices. When you share the note or export the scanned document, it will be in PDF format.

Can I scan multiple pages into a single document?

Absolutely! The iPhone 8’s scanning feature allows you to scan multiple pages into a single, multi-page PDF document. After scanning the first page, simply tap “Keep Scan” and then scan the next page. Repeat this process for all the pages you need to include.

How do I improve the scan quality on my iPhone 8?

Several factors can influence the quality of your scans. Here are a few tips to improve the results:

• Good Lighting: Ensure the document is well-lit. Avoid shadows or glare. Natural light is often the best.
• Stable Hand: Hold your iPhone steady while scanning. Shaky hands can result in blurry scans.
• Contrasting Background: Place the document on a contrasting background to help the iPhone detect the edges more easily.
• Clean Lens: Make sure your iPhone’s camera lens is clean. Smudges or dirt can significantly degrade the scan quality.
• Experiment with Filters: The built-in filters can sometimes improve clarity and readability. Try different options to see what works best for your document.

Is there a way to scan documents using a third-party app?

Yes, many third-party scanning apps are available on the App Store, such as Adobe Scan, Microsoft Lens, and CamScanner. These apps often offer advanced features like OCR (Optical Character Recognition), which allows you to convert the scanned image into editable text.

What is OCR and how does it work?

OCR (Optical Character Recognition) is a technology that converts scanned images of text into machine-readable text. This means you can then edit, copy, and search the text within the scanned document. While the native Notes app doesn’t offer OCR, many third-party scanning apps do.

How do I share a scanned document from the Notes app?

Sharing a scanned document from the Notes app is straightforward:

1. Open the note containing the scanned document.
2. Tap the Share icon: This is typically located in the upper right corner of the screen.
3. Choose a sharing method: You can share the document via email, message, AirDrop, or save it to files, among other options.

Can I annotate or edit a scanned document within the Notes app?

Yes, the Notes app allows you to annotate scanned documents. After scanning the document, tap on it within the note. Then, use the markup tools at the bottom of the screen to add drawings, highlights, signatures, or text.

How do I change the file name of a scanned document?

The filename of a scanned document within the Notes app is derived from the title of the note itself. To change the filename, simply rename the note. When you export or share the document, it will use the new note title as the file name.

My iPhone 8 isn’t automatically detecting the document edges. What should I do?

If your iPhone 8 is not automatically detecting the document edges, you can try the following:

• Ensure good lighting: Poor lighting can hinder the automatic edge detection.
• Use a contrasting background: A solid, contrasting background will make it easier for the iPhone to identify the document’s boundaries.
• Disable auto-capture: In the scanning interface, look for an option to disable auto-capture. This will allow you to manually take the picture and then adjust the corners yourself.

Can I scan QR codes with my iPhone 8?

Yes, the iPhone 8 can scan QR codes directly through the Camera app. Simply open the Camera app and point it at the QR code. Your iPhone will automatically detect the QR code and prompt you with an action, such as opening a website or adding a contact.

Is it possible to scan a physical check with the iPhone 8 and deposit it to the bank?

While you can scan a check using the Notes app or a third-party scanning app, most banks require check deposits to be made through their dedicated mobile banking apps. These apps have specific features for capturing check images that meet the bank’s requirements for security and image quality. Check with your bank for their specific mobile deposit procedures.

How secure is it to scan sensitive documents on my iPhone 8?

Scanning sensitive documents on your iPhone 8 is generally secure, especially if you take precautions. The scanned documents are stored within the Notes app, which can be protected by your iPhone’s passcode or Face ID. For extra security, you can also encrypt individual notes containing sensitive information. However, be mindful of where you share the documents and ensure you are using secure channels. Consider using a password-protected PDF if you share it via email.