What is Optical Character Recognition (OCR)?
Optical Character Recognition (OCR) is a technology that converts images of text into machine-readable and editable text. It involves the use of algorithms and software to recognize and extract characters from scanned documents, images, or handwritten text, and then convert them into digital text that can be searched, edited, and processed by computers.
OCR technology is widely used to digitize printed documents and make them searchable and editable. It finds applications in various fields, such as:
Document Digitization: OCR is used to convert physical documents, books, and articles into digital formats, allowing for easier storage, access, and distribution.
Text Recognition: OCR can be used to recognize text in images, such as photographs or screenshots, making it possible to extract text from images for further processing.
Data Entry: OCR can automate data entry processes by converting printed text from forms, invoices, and other paper-based documents into digital data, reducing the need for manual data entry.
Text Translation: OCR can be used in combination with translation software to convert text in one language to another, making it useful for translating documents and signage.
Accessibility: OCR plays a crucial role in making printed materials accessible to visually impaired individuals. It allows text to be read aloud by screen readers and converted into braille.
Automated Indexing: OCR can help automatically index and categorize large volumes of documents by extracting key text for metadata and search purposes.
OCR software works by analyzing the shapes and patterns of characters in an image. Modern OCR systems use advanced techniques from the fields of computer vision, machine learning, and artificial intelligence to improve accuracy. They can handle different fonts, sizes, and styles of text, as well as handle challenges such as skewed text, background noise, and varying lighting conditions.
It's important to note that while OCR technology has come a long way in improving accuracy, it may still have limitations, especially when dealing with handwritten text or degraded documents. However, continuous advancements in technology are gradually overcoming these limitations and expanding the capabilities of OCR systems.