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For technical issues, please include your device, iOS or iPadOS version, NarraCam version and a short description of what happened. Please only send images or other personal details needed for your request.
Getting started
- Open NarraCam on an iPhone or iPad with iOS/iPadOS 18 or later and allow camera access.
- On a compatible iPhone or iPad, we recommend “On-Device AI”. Select it under “Settings › Scene Description” and download a suitable model. If your device does not support local AI, use “Simple Description”. This mode is also available without internet or to get started without a download.
- Point the camera at a scene and use “Describe”, or enable automatic scene descriptions.
- Take a photo or video and find it under “Captures”. Microphone and location access are optional.
The image description guide for iPhone and iPad takes you from a live camera scene to a photo description read aloud.
Frequently asked questions
How does “Simple Description” differ from local AI?
“Simple Description” creates descriptions from local image signals and needs no download. On-Device AI uses an additional model on your device. Download it once with an internet connection; it can then describe images offline. The available selection depends on your device.
Which iPhones support local AI?
NarraCam enables local AI on iPhones with A16 or later: iPhone 14 Pro and Pro Max, all iPhone 15, 16 and 17 models including 16e and 17e, and iPhone Air. iPhone 14, 14 Plus and iPhone SE are excluded. The full compatibility overview also explains the extra RAM requirements for larger models. “Simple Description” remains available on older devices supported by the app.
Which iPads support local AI?
Supported devices include iPad Pro with M1, M2, M4 or M5, iPad Air with M1, M2, M3 or M4, iPad mini with A17 Pro and iPad with A16. Older models such as iPad Pro (2020), iPad Air (4th generation), iPad mini (6th generation) and iPad (10th generation) are excluded. The iPad compatibility list gives sizes and generations. Larger local models on iPad also depend on the device’s built-in RAM.
Where do I manage local models?
Under “Settings › Scene Description › On-Device AI › Profile & Storage” or “Settings › Storage › On-Device AI”. Profiles include Fast, Balanced and, on suitable devices, Detailed. The app shows the size before downloading. Switching models does not delete files. If you delete the active model, the app switches to “Simple Description”.
When does NarraCam describe scenes automatically?
When “Describe Scenes Automatically” is enabled and a relevant change is detected. This works in both modes. You can adjust the minimum interval and whether new descriptions are read aloud. With local AI, speed and battery use also depend on the device and model.
What are “Better Moments”?
When enabled, NarraCam also saves frames from just before you pressed the shutter. Choose an alternative immediately after capturing or later through “Choose a Better Moment”. These frames may have a lower resolution than the photo you took.
Can I use existing images?
Yes. Import photos into the library or send them to NarraCam from other apps using the share menu. Saved captures can be described, searched, edited and shared. You can adjust descriptions, dates and locations afterwards.
How do I store captures in iCloud?
Under “Storage”, choose whether captures stay on your device or are also stored in your private iCloud. iCloud can download originals when needed and free space on your device. This uses your Apple Account. Image descriptions still take place on your device.
How do I restore a deleted capture?
Deleted captures first go to the trash, where you can restore or permanently delete them. Storage settings let you select a period for automatic deletion. Without that option, they stay in the trash until you delete them manually.
Which languages are available?
The interface and scene descriptions support German, English, French and Spanish. You can adjust the voice and speech speed in the audio settings.
Can I open NarraCam from the Lock Screen?
The control opens the camera in the main app after you unlock your device. A separate camera that works without unlocking is currently not included. Other ways to open the app include Control Centre, Siri and Shortcuts.
How can I try NarraCam?
NarraCam is now available as a beta through TestFlight. Open the TestFlight invitation link on your iPhone or iPad and follow the installation steps. Development continues, and we welcome your feedback.
Your feedback
What works well, and what is missing? Feedback on the clarity of descriptions, speech and controls is particularly helpful.