Photomath

Photomath

4.5

Photomath is a mobile math-help app that scans printed and handwritten problems, including word problems, and explains each solution step by step.

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Last Updated Oct 28, 2026
Photomath screenshot

About

Photomath is a mobile application that solves math problems captured with a phone camera and then explains the solution one step at a time. It addresses a common frustration: a student gets stuck on a problem, and the textbook answer alone does not show how to reach it. Photomath fills that gap by pairing each answer with a worked explanation the learner can follow.

The workflow has three parts. First, the user scans the problem with the app's camera, or types it into the built-in smart calculator. Second, the app returns a solution for that exact problem, sometimes with several solution methods to compare. Third, the learner walks through each step to understand the reasoning. The app covers material from elementary math through college-level topics such as algebra, geometry, trigonometry, statistics, and calculus. According to the official site, Photomath is used by millions of learners each month, and the company is owned by Google.

Key Features

Camera-based problem scanning: Users point their phone at a printed or handwritten problem, including word problems, and the app recognizes it without manual typing.
Smart calculator input: For problems that are easier to type than to scan, the app includes a calculator-style input method.
Step-by-step explanations: Every solution is broken into individual steps so learners can see how the answer is derived rather than just the final result.
Multiple solution methods: When more than one valid approach exists, the app can show alternative methods for the same problem.
Custom visual aids and extra tips: Explanations include visual supports along with additional notes on how each step works and why it is applied.
Broad subject coverage: Topics span elementary math, algebra, geometry, trigonometry, statistics, and calculus.
Study resources: The Photomath site publishes articles on study techniques, math anxiety, learning styles, and using the app beyond homework.

Pricing & Fees

  • Pricing: A free Basic plan at $0 USD includes step-by-step explanations; a paid plan billed annually costs $69.99 USD and a monthly option costs $9.99 USD, both adding custom visual aids and extra "how" and "why" tips.
  • Free tier: The Basic plan is free and provides step-by-step explanations, so the core solving feature requires no payment.
  • Trial availability: The paid plans offer a start-trial option before committing to a subscription.
  • Format: Photomath is an app-based service designed for use on a phone, consistent with its camera-scanning workflow.

Who It's For

Photomath is aimed primarily at students from elementary school through college who need help understanding math homework rather than just obtaining answers. Parents use it to refresh their own skills while assisting children with assignments. Teachers and tutors can point struggling students to it as a supplementary explainer for problems covered in class. Adult learners returning to math for work or further study also fit the use case. Anyone who wants the reasoning behind an answer, not only the final number, is the intended user.

FAQ

What is Photomath?Photomath is a mobile app that solves math problems scanned with a phone camera and explains each solution step by step, covering elementary math through calculus.

Is Photomath free to use?Yes, a free Basic plan includes step-by-step explanations; paid plans at $9.99 USD per month or $69.99 USD per year add custom visual aids and extra explanatory tips.

What kinds of problems can Photomath solve?It handles printed and handwritten problems, including word problems, across arithmetic, algebra, geometry, trigonometry, statistics, and calculus, and can show multiple solution methods.

Does Photomath work without a camera?Yes, users can enter problems through the app's built-in smart calculator instead of scanning them.

Who owns Photomath?Photomath is owned by Google, which acquired the app; its official site and app distribution remain the primary channels for the product.