Want to turn your phone into a personal botanical guide and identify any plant you come across?
It's easier than you think! This article will take you step by step through downloading and installing the best apps to detect plant names, be it in your Android or iPhone (iOS).
Get ready to unravel the mysteries of the flora around you with just a few taps!
Downloading Apps on Android: The Google Play Store Path
For those who have a device Android, the official store to download apps is the Google Play Store. Follow these simple steps:
- Find the Google Play Store: Look for the icon Play Store on your phone or tablet. It's usually a colored triangle on your home screen or in your app list. Tap it to open it.
- Use Smart Search: At the top of the Play Store screen, you'll see a search bar. Tap it to bring up the keyboard.
- Enter App Name: Now, type the name of the app you want to download (like “PlantNet“, “Google Lens“, “Search by iNaturalist“, “PictureThis” or “LeafSnap“). After typing, tap the magnifying glass icon or the “Enter” key to start the search.
- Choose the Right App: A list of results will appear. It is important that you tap on the correct app. Check the application name and the icon to make sure it is the official version.
- Tap “Install”: When you select the app, you will see a page with information about it. Tap the green button "Install".
- Wait for the Process: The app will download and install automatically. The time it takes for this to complete depends on your internet speed and the size of the app.
- Open and Explore: Once the installation is complete, you can tap "Open" directly from the Play Store. The new app icon will also appear on your home screen or in your list of apps, ready to use.
Downloading Apps on iPhone/iPad: From the Apple App Store
If you are part of the Apple team and use an iPhone or iPad (iOS), the process of downloading applications is very intuitive through the App Store:
- Open the App Store: Locate and tap the icon App Store on your home screen. It has a white “A” on a blue background.
- Go to “Search”: At the bottom of the App Store screen, you'll see a few tabs. Tap the “Search”, which has a magnifying glass icon.
- Enter the App Name in the Search: At the top of the search screen, tap the search bar and type the name of the app you want (such as “PlantNet“, “Google Lens“, “Search by iNaturalist“, “PictureThis” or “LeafSnap“). Then tap “Search” on the virtual keyboard.
- Select the Correct Application: In the search results, find the app you are looking for. Pay attention to the name and in the official icon to avoid downloading the wrong version.
- Tap “Get” (or the cloud icon): If you have never downloaded this app before, tap "To obtain". If by any chance you already had it and deleted it, you will see a cloud icon with a down arrow. You may need to confirm the action using your Face ID, Touch ID, or by entering your Apple ID password.
- Please wait for download: The app will be automatically downloaded and installed on your device.
- Open the App: The newly installed app icon will appear on your home screen. Tap it to open and start using your new plant identifier.
Essential Tips for a Hassle-Free Download:
- Quality Internet: Whenever possible, use a Wi-Fi connection to download applications. This avoids consuming your mobile data and ensures a faster and more stable download.
- Space on Cell Phone: Before downloading, check if your device has sufficient storage space. Some applications, especially those with large image databases, may take up more space.
- Account Creation: Most of these apps will ask you to create an account (with your email or social networks) or log in the first time you use them. This step is usually quick and necessary to access all features, even the free ones.
- Required Permissions: When you first open the app, it will probably ask you permission to access your camera. It is essential that you grant this permission, as this is how the app can “see” the plant to identify it.
With this detailed guide, you’re ready to download and explore the fascinating world of plant identification apps. Now, go ahead and discover the green secrets that surround you!
