TextDetective from Blindsight is an iOS app accessible to users who are blind or visually impaired that quickly scans printed images for text. Detected text can then be read aloud or pasted into an email or other document. A History feature stores all scans.

The app -- available on iTunes for $9.99 -- can increase independence and autonomy for blind users by eliminating the need to have things read to them.

The app is optimized for the iPhone 4S or 5 but works with the iPhone 4, iPad, and iPod touch. Aligning text with the iPad, however, may take more time to master due to its different camera position.

How TextDetective Works

TextDetective scans using your iOS device's camera. It does not use the flash for illumination in dark environments. Ambient light is generally sufficient, but better lighting improves effectiveness.

Scannable text includes documents, signs, or postings. The app is less effective reading product labels and text structured in columns, e.g. in newspapers and magazines.

TextDetective reads words line by line, from left to right, thus does not recognize or identify paragraphs.

Text on buildings and street signs is generally detectable within six feet.

Using TextDetective

Once downloaded, TextDetective can be used anywhere, regardless of network coverage. It works best when images are a forearm's length away.

Note: Disable the orientation lock so your device adjusts based on how you hold it.

To scan a document:

• Place the document to be scanned on a flat surface
• Hold your iPhone in landscape mode with the touch screen facing you. The lens is located on the back in the corner near the On/Off button. (You may feel a small rim encircling the lens to distinguish its location).
• Place the camera lens against the text you wish to scan, as close to the center as possible
• Align the Home button along the right or left edge of the document
• Move the phone back about a forearm's length, without tilting or rotating it
• Double tap the "Scan in Landscape" button and wait for the "Evaluating" prompt
• The phone vibrates when it detects text.

If scan results are poor, try the following:

• Turn or flip the page and rescan
• If text is cut off, rescan from further away
• If text is indecipherable, rescan closer in.

TextDetective 1.5.0 Requirements

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TextDetective is compatible with iPhone 3GS, iPhone 4, iPhone 4S, iPhone 5, iPad, iPad mini, and iPod touch (4th & 5th generations). The app requires iOS 5 and is optimized for the iPhone 5. The file size is 20.7 MB.
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The latest version (June 11, 2013) uses less memory, making it faster and more stable on older devices. It also has a larger preview window.

Visit Blindsight for more information on TextDetective and its text and object recognition solutions.