How to Download Apps to Detect Plant Names on Your Cell Phone

You already know which apps are great for identifying plants, but now, how do you put them on your device? It's super easy!

This practical guide will show you step by step how to download and install the main apps to detect plant names, whether you are a user of Android or iPhone (iOS).

Get ready to turn your phone into a real botanical assistant!

Basic Step by Step: Downloading Apps on Android (Google Play Store)

If you use a smartphone or tablet Android, follow these instructions to download any application:

Download IOS

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Download ANDROID

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Open the Google Play Store: Find and tap the icon Play Store (the colored triangle) on your home screen or in the app drawer.
Use the Search Bar: At the top of the screen, tap the search bar to type the name of the app.
Enter Application Name: Enter the name of the app you want (for example, “PlantNet“, “Google Lens“, “Search by iNaturalist“, “PictureThis“, “LeafSnap“) and tap the magnifying glass icon or the “Enter” key.
Select the Correct Application: A list of results will appear. Search for the app you want, checking the developer name and icon to make sure it's the official app.
Tap “Install”: When you find the right app, tap the green button "Install".
Wait for Download and Installation: The app will be automatically downloaded and installed on your device. Download time will depend on your internet connection.
Open the App: After installation, you can tap on "Open" directly from the Play Store, or find the new app icon on your home screen or in the app drawer.

Basic Step by Step: Downloading Apps on iPhone/iPad (Apple App Store)

For users of iPhone or iPad With iOS, the process is very similar:

Open the App Store: Find and tap the icon App Store (usually a white “A” on a blue background) on your device’s home screen.
Go to the “Search” Tab: At the bottom of the screen, tap the tab “Search” (with a magnifying glass icon).
Use the Search Bar: At the top of the screen, tap the search bar and type the name of the app you want to find.
Enter Application Name: Enter the name of the app (e.g. “PlantNet“, “Google Lens“, “Search by iNaturalist“, “PictureThis“, “LeafSnap“) and tap “Search” on the virtual keyboard.
Select the Correct Application: In the search results, find the desired application, paying attention to the name and the official icon.
Tap “Get” (or the cloud icon): If this is your first time downloading the app, tap "To obtain". If you have downloaded it before and deleted it, you will see a cloud icon with a down arrow. You may need to confirm with your Face ID, Touch ID, or Apple ID password.
Wait for Download and Installation: Download and installation will occur automatically.
Open the App: The new app icon will appear on your home screen. Tap it to open and start using it.

Quick Tips for Downloading Each Plant App:

Here are some specific tips to make each of the plant identification apps we mentioned easier to find:

PlantNet: Search for “PlantNet“The icon usually has a leaf or plant design.
Google Lens: For Android, it may already be integrated into your camera or Google app. For iOS, search for “Google Lens” in the App Store. The icon is a stylized camera.
Search by iNaturalist: Search for “Seek” or “Search by iNaturalist“The icon is usually a small pair of binoculars or a leaf.
PictureThis: Search for “PictureThis“The icon is usually a camera or a flower.
LeafSnap: Search for “LeafSnap“. Please note that there may be several versions; read the reviews to choose a good quality one. The icon usually has a leaf.

Important Points Before Downloading:

Internet Connection: Use a stable Wi-Fi network to download the apps. This saves your mobile data and ensures faster downloads.
Storage Space: Check if your cell phone has enough free space. Some applications, especially those with large databases, may be heavier.
Create Your Account: Most apps will ask you to create an account or log in after you first use them. It's a quick process and allows you to access all the features (even the free ones).
Permissions: When you open the app for the first time, it will probably ask for access to your camera. Grant this permission, as it is essential for identifying plants.

With these simple steps, you’ll be ready to explore the green world around you with the help of technology. Now just point your camera and identify!