How to Search Scanned Documents in iOS 15 Notes

In iOS 15, the Apple Notes app includes built-in Optical Character Recognition (OCR) that enables users to locate text embedded inside scanned documents and images. This article explains how the integrated text search function operates behind the scenes, how to search across and within scanned attachments, and the capabilities of Apple’s on-device scanning intelligence.

How the Technology Works

When you scan a physical document using the camera within Apple Notes, iOS 15 automatically processes the document using on-device machine learning powered by the Neural Engine.

  1. Automatic Text Recognition: The system analyzes the pixels of the scanned document to identify character shapes, words, and structure without requiring manual transcription.
  2. System Indexing: Once recognized, the text is converted into searchable metadata and added to the local Spotlight index and the internal Notes search index.
  3. On-Device Privacy: All processing takes place directly on your iPhone or iPad. The scanned contents are not sent to external servers for text analysis, preserving user privacy.

Searching Across All Scanned Notes

You can locate specific scanned files from the main Notes library using the global search bar:

  1. Open the Notes app to the main folders or notes list.
  2. Swipe down to reveal the Search bar at the top of the screen.
  3. Type the word or phrase contained within your scanned document.
  4. Under the search results, Notes will display notes containing matching text, labeling scanned documents under categories such as "Attachments" or highlighting the note where the scan resides.

Searching Within a Specific Scanned Document

To find exact word locations inside a single note containing a scan:

  1. Open the specific note containing the scanned document.
  2. Tap the More (...) menu icon in the top-right corner.
  3. Select Find in Note.
  4. Enter the search term in the field at the bottom of the screen.
  5. The Notes app will navigate directly to the scanned document and highlight the matching text in yellow. You can use the up and down navigation arrows to cycle through multiple occurrences.

Supported Document Types and Capabilities

  • Printed and Handwritten Text: The OCR engine can read standard printed typography as well as legible handwriting.
  • Multi-Page Scans: If a scan contains multiple pages saved as a single PDF attachment, the search query scans through every page simultaneously.
  • Language Support: The search functionality supports multiple languages configured in your system settings, matching words even when accents or formatting vary slightly.