You don’t need a copier or a separate scanner anymore. Your iPhone can scan documents using tools you already have. In fact, there are three easy ways to scan documents with your iPhone, whether you want to save paperwork, share forms, or turn paper into a PDF.
What Does “Scanning” Mean on an iPhone?
Scanning means taking a picture of a paper document with your iPhone’s camera, then saving it as a digital file (usually a PDF or image).
Your iPhone can straighten the page, adjust lighting, and improve readability automatically.
Scan Documents Using the Notes App
The Notes app includes a built-in document scanner. Check out our linked post for a more in-depth dive on the subject.
Steps:
- Open the Notes app
- Open an existing note or create a new one
- Tap the camera icon
- Tap Scan Documents
- Hold your iPhone over the document
- Tap Save when finished
Your scan is saved directly inside the note.
Scan Documents Using the Files App
You can also scan documents and save them directly to your files.
The Files app is where your iPhone stores documents, PDFs, and downloads. It’s useful if you want your scanned files organized in folders rather than in Notes.
Steps:
- Open the Files app
- Tap Browse
- Tap the three dots in the top corner
- Tap Scan Documents
- Scan your document
- Tap Save and choose a folder
To Preview or Share:
- Open the scan in Files
- Tap the file to preview
- Tap Share to send it
- Tap Markup to annotate or sign
Scan Documents Using the Preview App
Preview tools on your iPhone let you scan, mark up, and sign documents without saving them in Notes or organizing them in Files folders.
You access Preview when scanning inside Files, or when opening PDFs from Mail or Messages.
- Open the Files app
- Tap the three dots
- Choose Scan Documents
- Hold your iPhone over the paper
Youll see a scan in bue - Tap to scan or let it scan automatically, screen
- Tap the thumbnail to review
- Use Markup or tap Done, then Save or Share
You can also preview and mark up files directly from emails or messages by tapping on a PDF, then using the Markup tool (in the floating menu shown in this image).
Tips for Better Scans
For best results:
- Scan in a well-lit area
- Choose either a white or black surface
- Place the document on a flat surface
- Keep your phone steady
- Review the scan before saving
Want to Learn More?
Curious about other camera functions in iOS? Check out our post on How to Adjust Your iPhone’s Camera Settings
Looking for more short tech tips? Explore SDM Tech Terms Shorts on the SDM YouTube Channel.
If you have questions about these scanning methods, or our other services, please call or email. We’re happy to assist you! Feel free to use our contact form to send us a message. Thank you!
