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Better iPad vs iPhone Camera for Photo—>.PDFs?


 

Please consider my taking close up photos of documents from legal to letter to just personal check sizes, intending to convert to a .pdf and email each document to a business partner (he asked for .pdfs not usual hard copies). Which of my Apple cameras, iPhone 11 or iPad 9th, would produce better images or have any advantage over the other? I sent him about 50-75 such .pdfs already, made with a big quite old scanner at a local big box store. Images not bad but very inconvenient, VERY slow and tedious old scanner operation and expensive. Then too late as usual I think I had a better idea.
A couple of test photos with my iPhone 11 made good .pdfs. I have another dozen or more to go. Any thoughts?
Many thanks,
Dick
-----------------------------
Richard E. Johnson, ScM, MD
recmsoj1@...
recmsoj@...
recmsoj@...

Sent from iPad (9th)(2)
iPadOS 18.1
iPhone 11
iOS 17.7.1


 

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On Oct 31, 2024, at 05:50, Richard Johnson via groups.io <recmsoj1@...> wrote:

????Please consider my taking close up photos of documents from legal to letter to just personal check sizes, intending to convert to a .pdf and email each document to a business partner (he asked for .pdfs not usual hard copies). Which of my Apple cameras, iPhone 11 or iPad 9th, would produce better images or have any advantage over the other? I sent him about 50-75 such .pdfs already, made with a big quite old scanner at a local big box store. Images not bad but very inconvenient, VERY slow and tedious old scanner operation and expensive. Then too late as usual I think I had a better idea.

Are you using the Scan capabilities of the Notes.app to make these?

It would seem to me that whichever device has the most advanced camera (i.e. best lens) would logically make the best .pdf document, no?

Bob


 

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According to Mactracker, your cameras are:
iPhone 11: 2 - 12 MP Ultra Wide and Wide cameras (Back), 1 - 12 MP (TrueDepth)
iPad 9th gen: 1 - 12 MP Ultra Wide FaceTime HD, 1 - 8 MP Wide rear

I’ve used both my iPad and iPhone to scan documents. ?Given that my iPad is much larger, and its camera is to one side, I’ve found scanning documents much easier with my iPhone. ?

We are considering purchasing a scanner because I find it difficult to make documents lie flat and get the best lighting. ?But perhaps my problems are just that I don’t have the best of conditions in which to scan the documents.

On Oct 31, 2024, at 7:22?AM, Richard Johnson via groups.io <recmsoj1@...> wrote:

Please consider my taking close up photos of documents from legal to letter to just personal check sizes, intending to convert to a .pdf and email each document to a business partner (he asked for .pdfs not usual hard copies). Which of my Apple cameras, iPhone 11 or iPad 9th, would produce better images or have any advantage over the other? I sent him about 50-75 such .pdfs already, made with a big quite old scanner at a local big box store. Images not bad but very inconvenient, VERY slow and tedious old scanner operation and expensive. Then too late as usual I think I had a better idea.
????A couple of test photos with my iPhone 11 made good .pdfs. I have another dozen or more to go. Any thoughts?

--
Ben in TX


 

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On Oct 31, 2024, at 10:03, Bev in TX via groups.io <countryone77@...> wrote:

We are considering purchasing a scanner because I find it difficult to make documents lie flat and get the best lighting. ?But perhaps my problems are just that I don’t have the best of conditions in which to scan the documents.

FWIW, many years ago, when it was a one-time purchase, from the iPhone App Store I purchased Scanner Pro from Readdle (be sure it’s from Readdle) and it has proven to be a fantastic scanning app.

Having it on my iPhone, I cannot download it again from the App Store to see how “crippled” the free version may be but you might check it out to see if the free version is worthwhile. ?The in-app costs, at $5 a month, are rather expensive unless you do a lot of scanning.

If anyone tries it out, would you please report back? I’d like to be able to recommend this to the seniors I help if the free version turns out to be worthwhile.

Thanks,
Bob



 

I would guess the quality is so close, that it doesn’t matter. Use the device that is most convenient for you.

Brent

On my iPhone Xr

On Oct 31, 2024, at 05:22, Richard Johnson via groups.io <recmsoj1@...> wrote:

? Please consider my taking close up photos of documents from legal to letter to just personal check sizes, intending to convert to a .pdf and email each document to a business partner (he asked for .pdfs not usual hard copies). Which of my Apple cameras, iPhone 11 or iPad 9th, would produce better images or have any advantage over the other? I sent him about 50-75 such .pdfs already, made with a big quite old scanner at a local big box store. Images not bad but very inconvenient, VERY slow and tedious old scanner operation and expensive. Then too late as usual I think I had a better idea.
A couple of test photos with my iPhone 11 made good .pdfs. I have another dozen or more to go. Any thoughts?
Many thanks,
Dick
-----------------------------
Richard E. Johnson, ScM, MD
recmsoj1@...
recmsoj@...
recmsoj@...

Sent from iPad (9th)(2)
iPadOS 18.1
iPhone 11
iOS 17.7.1




 

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Bob,
? ?You asked if I used the. Notes app scanner. Answer no, just found it after you said so.?
Is there any advantage to using it??
Thanks,
Dick
-----------------------------
Richard E. Johnson, ScM, MD
recmsoj1@...
recmsoj@...
recmsoj@...

Sent from iPad (9th)(2)
? ? ?iPadOS 18.1
iPhone 11
? ? ?iOS 17.7.1
?W(1st), wOS 4.3.2

On Oct 31, 2024, at 15:19, Bob G. via groups.io <rowerbob@...> wrote:

?On Oct 31, 2024, at 10:03, Bev in TX via groups.io <countryone77@...> wrote:

We are considering purchasing a scanner because I find it difficult to make documents lie flat and get the best lighting. ?But perhaps my problems are just that I don’t have the best of conditions in which to scan the documents.

FWIW, many years ago, when it was a one-time purchase, from the iPhone App Store I purchased Scanner Pro from Readdle (be sure it’s from Readdle) and it has proven to be a fantastic scanning app.

Having it on my iPhone, I cannot download it again from the App Store to see how “crippled” the free version may be but you might check it out to see if the free version is worthwhile. ?The in-app costs, at $5 a month, are rather expensive unless you do a lot of scanning.

If anyone tries it out, would you please report back? I’d like to be able to recommend this to the seniors I help if the free version turns out to be worthwhile.

Thanks,
Bob



 

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On Oct 31, 2024, at 17:09, Richard Johnson via groups.io <recmsoj1@...> wrote:

Bob,
? ?You asked if I used the. Notes app scanner. Answer no, just found it after you said so.?
Is there any advantage to using it??
Thanks,
Dick

Dick -?

I am sold on going to Perplexity.com site with questions like the one you posed. ?

I asked it: Is the notes.app scan feature on an iPhone better than taking a photo of a document?

And here is what it returned:

The scanning feature in the Notes app on iOS offers several advantages over simply taking a photo of a document. Here are the key comparisons:

## **Quality of Scans**
- **Automatic Edge Detection**: The Notes app automatically detects the edges of documents, which helps in capturing only the relevant content without shadows or distortions that often occur in regular photos. This feature is particularly useful for ensuring that the entire document is captured cleanly[2][4].

- **Image Processing**: Scanned documents are processed to enhance clarity and contrast, making text more legible compared to standard photos, which may not adjust for lighting conditions or angles[2][4].

## **Ease of Use**
- **Integrated Workflow**: Scanning documents in the Notes app is straightforward. Users can create a new note, tap the camera icon, select "Scan Documents," and the app will automatically capture the document when it’s in view. This process is generally quicker than adjusting settings for a photo and ensuring proper framing[2][5].

- **Multiple Pages**: The Notes app allows users to scan multiple pages into a single note, making it easier to manage longer documents without needing to take separate photos[4][5].

## **Storage and Sharing**
- **File Management**: Scanned documents are saved directly within the Notes app, allowing for easy organization and access. Users can also export these scans as PDFs or share them directly from the app, simplifying the process of sending documents electronically[1][2][4].

- **Reduced File Size**: Scans taken through the Notes app may occupy less storage space compared to high-resolution photos, which can be beneficial for users with limited storage capacity on their devices[1].

## **Conclusion**
Overall, while taking a photo of a document can be quick and effective for casual use, the scanning feature in the Notes app provides enhanced quality, better organization, and more efficient sharing options. For users who frequently need to digitize documents, utilizing the scanning feature is generally recommended over standard photography.

Citations:
[1] https://www.reddit.com/r/LifeProTips/comments/wxk2z9/lpt_if_youre_on_ios_instead_of_taking_a_picture/
[2] https://www.zdnet.com/article/how-to-scan-documents-and-images-with-your-iphone-using-notes/
[3] https://talk.tidbits.com/t/if-i-scan-some-things-into-notes-how-do-i-import-them-into-photos/25099
[4] https://bluenotary.us/scan-document-with-iphone/
[5] https://support.apple.com/guide/iphone/scan-text-and-documents-iph653f28965/ios
[6] https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/reviews/best-mobile-scanning-apps/
[7] https://support.apple.com/en-us/108963
[8] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s_5hjTo78s4

HTH, Bob


 

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On Oct 31, 2024, at 3:19?PM, Bob G. via groups.io <rowerbob@...> wrote:

On Oct 31, 2024, at 10:03, Bev in TX via groups.io <countryone77@...> wrote:

We are considering purchasing a scanner because I find it difficult to make documents lie flat and get the best lighting. ?But perhaps my problems are just that I don’t have the best of conditions in which to scan the documents.

FWIW, many years ago, when it was a one-time purchase, from the iPhone App Store I purchased Scanner Pro from Readdle (be sure it’s from Readdle) and it has proven to be a fantastic scanning app.

Having it on my iPhone, I cannot download it again from the App Store to see how “crippled” the free version may be but you might check it out to see if the free version is worthwhile. ?The in-app costs, at $5 a month, are rather expensive unless you do a lot of scanning.

If anyone tries it out, would you please report back? I’d like to be able to recommend this to the seniors I help if the free version turns out to be worthwhile.
I installed Scanner Pro, but you have to start a 5 day free trial to actually use it. ?After that it’s $29.99/year. ?I didn’t do the free trial. ?

Even without the free trial it allowed me to scan a document, but then wouldn’t show the results back in its scanned document area. ?It did capture the full document and highlighted where it could optionally crop the background, which would be very useful.

--
Ben in TX


 

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Bob,
? ? ?Sometime explain Perplexity.com to me as I’ve never heard of it, but meanwhile, that’s the best answer and news I’ve heard so far for my particular current little scanning problem. I did locate and look at the scanner in Notes app which I use all the time, just never it’s scanner till now. Great answer,?
Many thanks,
Dick
-----------------------------
Richard E. Johnson, ScM, MD
recmsoj1@...
recmsoj@...
recmsoj@...

Sent from iPad (9th)(2)
? ? ?iPadOS 18.1
iPhone 11
? ? ?iOS 17.7.1?
?W(1st), wOS 4.3.2

On Oct 31, 2024, at 19:09, Bob G. via groups.io <rowerbob@...> wrote:

?On Oct 31, 2024, at 17:09, Richard Johnson via groups.io <recmsoj1@...> wrote:

Bob,
? ?You asked if I used the. Notes app scanner. Answer no, just found it after you said so.?
Is there any advantage to using it??
Thanks,
Dick

Dick -?

I am sold on going to Perplexity.com site with questions like the one you posed. ?

I asked it: Is the notes.app scan feature on an iPhone better than taking a photo of a document?

And here is what it returned:

The scanning feature in the Notes app on iOS offers several advantages over simply taking a photo of a document. Here are the key comparisons:
………………………

HTH, Bob


 

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On Oct 31, 2024, at 21:35, Richard Johnson via groups.io <recmsoj1@...> wrote:

? ? ?Sometime explain??to me as I’ve never heard of it, but meanwhile, that’s the best answer and news I’ve heard so far for my particular current little scanning problem. I did locate and look at the scanner in Notes app which I use all the time, just never it’s scanner till now. Great answer,?
Many thanks,

You can d/l Perplexity.ai from the App Store for both iOS devices and Mac computers.

I thought “Let’s use Perplexity to explain Perplexity” and so I asked it: ?Provide a full explanation of what Perplexity.AI is and does and here is what it returned.

Perplexity AI is an advanced AI-powered search and research assistant that combines elements of traditional search engines with cutting-edge natural language processing capabilities. Here's a comprehensive explanation of what Perplexity AI is and how it functions:

## Core Functionality

Perplexity AI serves as an intelligent search engine that goes beyond simple keyword matching. It uses sophisticated language models to understand and interpret user queries in a more natural, conversational manner[1][3]. When you ask Perplexity a question, it performs the following steps:

1. Query Interpretation: The AI analyzes your question to understand its context and nuances.
2. Web Search: It scours the internet in real-time, gathering information from a diverse range of authoritative sources.
3. Information Synthesis: The AI compiles and summarizes the most relevant insights into a coherent answer.
4. Response Generation: It delivers a clear, concise response in a conversational tone, complete with citations.

## Key Features

### Real-Time Information Retrieval

Perplexity indexes the web daily, allowing it to provide up-to-date information on current events, breaking news, and live updates[3]. This makes it particularly useful for queries about recent developments or ongoing situations.

### Contextual Understanding

Unlike traditional search engines, Perplexity maintains context throughout a conversation. It can remember previous queries within a thread, allowing for more natural follow-up questions and a seamless dialogue[1].

### Source Transparency

Every answer provided by Perplexity includes footnotes linking to the original sources. This transparency allows users to verify information or explore topics further[1].

### Versatility

Perplexity can assist with a wide range of tasks, including answering complex questions, summarizing articles, exploring topics in-depth, and even helping with creative writing or coding tasks[2].

## Technology Stack

Perplexity leverages multiple advanced language models, including:

- GPT-4
- Claude 3
- Mistral Large
- Perplexity's own custom models

These models enable the system to understand queries, process information, and generate human-like responses[3].

## Search Modes

Perplexity offers two primary search modes:

1. **Quick Search**: Designed for fast, straightforward answers by quickly summarizing information from indexed sources.
2. **Pro Search**: Provides more in-depth responses, potentially asking follow-up questions to refine the search and deliver tailored answers[1].

## Additional Features

- **Image and Document Upload**: Users can upload documents and images to inform Perplexity's searches.
- **Image Generation**: The AI can generate images related to queries or based on textual descriptions.
- **Thread Organization**: Searches (called "Threads") can be organized into collections of related ideas.
- **Sharing Capabilities**: Users can share specific Threads with others.
- **Mobile Apps and Browser Extensions**: Perplexity offers mobile applications and Chrome extensions for easier access and integration[3].

## Limitations and Considerations

While Perplexity AI is a powerful tool, it's important to note that it can sometimes produce minor inaccuracies or "hallucinations" typical of large language models. Users should still verify important information, especially for critical or sensitive topics[3].

## Business Model

Perplexity operates on a freemium model. The free version uses the company's standalone language model, while the paid "Pro" version offers access to more advanced models like GPT-4 and additional features[4].

In conclusion, Perplexity AI represents a significant evolution in search technology, offering a more intuitive, conversational, and comprehensive approach to information retrieval and research assistance. Its combination of real-time web search, advanced language understanding, and transparent sourcing makes it a valuable tool for a wide range of users, from students and professionals to casual researchers and curious individuals.

Citations:
[1] https://www.perplexity.ai/hub/faq/how-does-perplexity-work
[2] https://culibraries.creighton.edu/c.php?g=1334271&p=10213131
[3] https://zapier.com/blog/perplexity-ai/
[4] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Perplexity_(company)
[5] https://www.techtarget.com/searchenterpriseai/tutorial/How-to-use-Perplexity-AI-Tutorial-pros-and-cons
[6] https://www.reddit.com/r/perplexity_ai/comments/1dmcf20/what_are_some_use_cases_for_perplexity_ai/
[7] https://www.perplexity.ai/hub/getting-started
[8]


Then I asked, how much does Perplexity cost? ? FYI - I have used only the free plan so far.

Perplexity AI offers several pricing tiers:

1. Free Plan:
? ?- Available at no cost
? ?- Provides basic search functionality and limited features

2. Pro Plan:
? ?- Costs $20 per month or $200 per year (saving $40 annually)[1][2][4]
? ?- Includes advanced features like:
? ? ?- Access to more powerful AI models
? ? ?- Unlimited file uploads
? ? ?- API access
? ? ?- More Copilot uses
? ?- Offers a 7-day free trial[4]

3. Enterprise Pro Plan:
? ?- Flexible pricing based on team size[2]
? ?- Includes additional features like:
? ? ?- User management
? ? ?- Single sign-on integration
? ? ?- Enhanced security warnings
? ? ?- Data retention options

4. API Pricing:
? ?- Perplexity offers different models with varying prices:
? ? ?- Perplexity Sonar models: Range from $0.2 to $5 per million tokens[1]
? ? ?- Perplexity Chat models: Fixed price per 1,000 requests plus variable costs based on input and output tokens[1]
? ?- Pro subscribers receive a $5 monthly credit towards API usage[1]

It's worth noting that Perplexity occasionally offers promotional deals. For example, there was a recent offer for 50% off the Pro plan, bringing the monthly cost down to $10[6].

Citations:
[1] https://www.withorb.com/blog/perplexity-pricing
[2] https://www.techtarget.com/searchenterpriseai/tutorial/How-to-use-Perplexity-AI-Tutorial-pros-and-cons
[3] https://docs.perplexity.ai/guides/pricing
[4] https://tome.app/productivity-tips/the-tome-guide-to-perplexity-ai
[5] https://www.wheelhouse.com/products/perplexity-ai/pricing
[6] https://www.zdnet.com/article/you-have-a-week-left-to-get-50-off-of-perplexity-pro-plus-a-free-uber-one-subscription/
[7] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Perplexity_(company)
[8] https://zapier.com/blog/perplexity-ai/