How to reverse image search on a mobile device or computer

Have you ever come across an image online and wondered where it came from? Was it an amazing landscape photo that you wanted to use as your wallpaper, or perhaps a funny meme without a source? Well, if you did, and were looking for a way to find out, we have three words for you. Reverse image search. Here’s all you need to know about what it is and how it works. 

What is reverse image search?

Reverse image search is a powerful tool that helps you unlock the hidden story behind an image. Instead of searching with words, you can simply upload an image to a search engine.

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It then scours the vast internet to find similar images, other websites featuring the same picture, and potentially even the original source within a few seconds.

Why use reverse image search?

There are numerous reasons why you might want to use the reverse image search feature:

1. Find the original source 

It can be used to track down the photographer or creator and ensure appropriate crediting.

2. Finding similar images 

It assists in finding visually similar images or finding higher resolution versions of an image.

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3. Verify information 

Reverse image searches help debunk fake news and doctored images that appear online.

4. Identify products

It can be used to identify products by uploading a picture of the item, allowing the search engine to find similar images and provide information on its make, model, and where to purchase it.

5. Check for unauthorised use

Creators and artists can use reverse image search to see if their work is being used without their permission.

Reverse image search via Google Images

You can reverse image search via Google Images from your laptop as well as smartphone. Here’s how:

1. Desktops/ laptops

Go to https://images.google.com/ on a web browser on your laptop or desktop and then click on the camera icon in the search bar. You can then choose from two options, such as pasting the image URL (if you found it online) or uploading an image from your computer.

2. Mobile (Chrome Browser)

Navigate to https://images.google.com/ on a Chrome browser, tap on the three vertical dots button and then select “Desktop site” to open the desktop version of Google Images. Next, tap on the camera icon and proceed as above. This step can also be done on any other web browser for mobile devices.

Reverse image search via mobile apps

If you wish to reverse image search via a mobile app, you can either use the Google Lens app or TinEye.

1. Google Lens (Android/iOS)

Often integrated into your phone’s camera or Google Photos app, Google Lens is a handy tool for reverse image search. Open an image in your gallery or point your camera at an object. Tap the Google Lens icon (it usually looks like a camera lens) and explore the results.

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2. TinEye (Web-based, also has a mobile app)

To use it, simply upload an image or provide its URL on the TinEye website (ttps://tineye.com). It will scan the internet to find where else that image appears. It is a nifty tool for finding image sources, tracking image usage, and discovering similar images.

Reverse Image Search via browser extensions

For frequent reverse image searchers, browser extensions are a true time-saver:

1. RevEye (Chrome, Firefox)

Adds a right-click option to images, letting you search with multiple engines at once.

2. Search by Image (Chrome, Firefox, Edge)

It is a popular extension offering similar right-click functionality.

Things to keep in mind

Reverse image search isn’t foolproof and sometimes returns unrelated images. The accuracy of the search result also depends on the clarity and uniqueness of your image. Readers should also note that uploading images to search engines means they become part of those companies’ databases. If this worries you, consider TinEye, which focuses on finding the original source and doesn’t store images as extensively.

Mastering reverse image search

With a little practice, you will be able to use reverse image search like a pro. Here are some additional tips:

1. Crop or focus: If you are interested in a specific part of an image, isolate that element before searching.

2. Different sizes: Try searching with various sizes or resolutions, if possible, for wider results.

3. Multiple search engines: Sometimes cross-referencing results from Google Images, TinEye, or others expands your search scope.

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In summary, whether on your mobile device or laptop, conducting a reverse image search is a simple process. Using platforms like Google Images or TinEye, you can quickly find the source of images, verify their authenticity, and explore related content.