Microsoft Lens is DEAD — Microsoft wants you on OneDrive, but it doesn’t let you save scans locally

Microsoft Lens iOS App Store Hero
Microsoft Lens has already been confirmed for the Graveyard, but today it will be delisted from mobile app stores. (Image credit: Windows Central)

Last month, Microsoft announced its plan to retire Microsoft Lens (formerly Office Lens) from iOS and Android devices.

As you may know, the app allows users to trim and enhance pictures of whiteboards and documents, making readable. What's more, you can leverage the app to convert images into PDF, Word, PowerPoint, and Excel files.

You can continue to scan documents in the app until March 9, 2026. After that, you will not be able to create new scans, but you will still be able to access your previous scans if the app remains installed on your device.

Microsoft

While it is still possible to continue using the app to scan documents through early next month, Microsoft says that you'll "need to be signed into your last active account on the Microsoft Lens app to access past scans".

As Microsoft is set to completely discontinue the app next month, the tech giant has promoted its OneDrive as a viable alternative. "To continue using scanning capabilities, we recommend the OneDrive app, which includes a built-in scanning feature," added Microsoft.

To leverage OneDrive's scanning capabilities, launch the app on your device and select the + button in the bottom corner. Then, select the Scan photo option to scan your documents. Your scanned file will be saved in your desired location in your OneDrive.

Interestingly, unlike Microsoft Lens, which would let you save your scanned files on your local device, "OneDrive does not support saving scans locally on your device".

Elsewhere, Microsoft is unleashing AI agents in its OneDrive app, transforming it into the ultimate productivity hub, and bolstering smarter file and project management. However, it's worth noting that you'll need a Microsoft 365 Copilot license to create your own OneDrive AI agent.


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Kevin Okemwa
Contributor

Kevin Okemwa is a seasoned tech journalist based in Nairobi, Kenya with lots of experience covering the latest trends and developments in the industry at Windows Central. With a passion for innovation and a keen eye for detail, he has written for leading publications such as OnMSFT, MakeUseOf, and Windows Report, providing insightful analysis and breaking news on everything revolving around the Microsoft ecosystem. While AFK and not busy following the ever-emerging trends in tech, you can find him exploring the world or listening to music.

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