Google Lens Announces New 'Homework' Filter, Solves Math Problems With Photo

Google Lens will include a 'Homework' filter that solves math problems using an app called Socratic.
Brad Bergan

Google is using technology from a mobile learning app called Socratic — which the company acquired in 2019 — to run the forthcoming Lens feature, solving homework problems with nothing but a picture of the equation, according to a recent blog post on Google's website.

The rollout date for Google Lens has yet to be announced, but the underlying Socratic feature is already live and available for iOS and Android users.

RELATED: GOOGLE'S UPDATED APP MAY ALLOW ONLINE SEARCHES THROUGH DIRECT SCREENSHOTS

Google Lens announces 'Homework' feature, solves problem with pic

Google has offered students and parents more tools to make homeschooling and studying easier. In May of this year, it launched a feature within Search based on augmented reality that lets users see 3D anatomy models, in addition to cellular structures. Soon, the colossal tech giant will help everyone solve math problems with nothing more than a photo taken via Google Lens, reports Engadget.

Once Google Lens goes live, users will snap a pic of their study material, highlight a troublesome equation or complex problem to access step-by-step guides with meticulous explainers. The aim is to make looking up mathematical concepts as easy as possible, since applying concepts and formulas comes only after understanding them.

No launch date, but Socratic already available for iOS, Android

Google has yet to say when the Lens feature will go live, but Socratic is already available for download on Android and iOS.

Notably, Google also said Search now has almost 100 STEM-related 3D objects available for users' perusal. For example, search "Quantum mechanical model," and users will see a 3D atom model superimposed on one's environment.

Beyond Google Lens: Read Along, Family Bell features

Google's Director of Program Management for Education Jennifer Holland also mentioned other tools capable of helping students who are now compulsory homebodies due to the coronavirus crisis.

She spoke about Read Along, a feature designed to inspire or enhance kids' interest in reading. Additionally, the live caption and smart speaker feature of Google Meet's — called Family Bell — keeps students (and possibly teachers) on schedule with timed announcements to remind them when it's time to begin online classes, or give our minds a well-deserved break.

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