To all the kids out there struggling with math homework: your life just got a lot easier. Now, solving equations is as simple as downloading a (free) app called PhotoMath. The app's text recognition technology analyzes the equation, solves it, and even shows its work so users can follow along—a sticking point for math teachers everywhere.
MicroBlink, the app's parent company, has been developing its text recognition technology for the past two years, Tech Crunch reports. PhotoMath, which launched at TechCrunch Disrupt Europe, is only part of what the company is trying to achieve—MicroBlink wants to market its technology to any company that would find it useful. The tech works in real-time, "meaning that you will get instant feedback on what you're scanning." It's also as accurate as possible and provides SDKs (software development kits) for specific cases like bill payments or equations.
The company, which is based in London and Croatia, has been waiting to finalize its software before raising any money. Luckily they seem to have tapped into a limitless market: Math students.
