Optical Character Recognition (OCR) is a process that enables computers to read and convert printed or handwritten text into machine-encoded text. OCR systems use image processing techniques to identify characters in a document and then map them to a corresponding digital format. The process typically involves multiple stages: preprocessing the image (e.g., removing noise, adjusting contrast), detecting text regions, segmenting the text into lines and characters, and recognizing each character. For example, OCR can be used to convert printed books into e-books, scan receipts for financial tracking, or even convert historical documents into a searchable digital format. OCR technology has been around for decades, but advancements in machine learning, especially deep learning, have significantly improved its accuracy and versatility. Modern OCR systems can handle diverse fonts, languages, and handwriting styles, providing more flexibility in applications such as document management, text-based search, and automatic data extraction from forms. OCR plays a crucial role in making text-based information more accessible and usable in the digital age.
What is Optical Character Recognition(OCR)?
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