Privascan review
A privacy-focused iPhone scanner with generous free scanning and a $9.99 Pro unlock.
Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
Privascan is an iPhone document-scanning app for people who want to capture paper documents, extract text, create searchable PDFs, and keep files on their device. Automatic document-edge detection and image enhancement filters support the scanning workflow, while on-device OCR creates searchable and selectable PDF exports. Processing works offline without a Privascan server, making the app suited to users who prioritize local document handling. Browser-based PDF tools extend the product beyond its iPhone app.
The free plan includes unlimited scans, on-device OCR, searchable PDF export, and exports without a watermark. Pro costs $9.99 as a one-time purchase. That tier adds PDF merge, import, reorder, extract, split, and compression tools, along with password-protected exports. It also adds export presets, file-naming rules, folders, and on-device filing suggestions. The plan structure is straightforward: core scanning and OCR are available without a recurring payment, while more advanced PDF management and organization features sit behind Pro.
Privascan fits an iOS-centered workflow, with the iPhone app complemented by browser-based PDF tools and system share-sheet exports. Its feature set is broader than basic capture because it combines scanning, OCR, PDF editing, export controls, and local filing suggestions. The main trade-off is platform and ecosystem coverage: there is no Android app, and no third-party integrations are listed. Choose Privascan if offline processing, local OCR, searchable PDFs, and a one-time Pro purchase match your needs. Choose another app if Android support or connected integrations are essential.
Privascan pros and cons
- Where it wins
- On-device OCR and offline processing without a Privascan server
- Free plan includes unlimited scans and searchable PDF export
- Pro adds PDF tools, password protection, and filing suggestions
- Where it doesn't
- No Android app
- No listed third-party integrations
- Pro features require a one-time purchase
Privascan fact sheet, pricing and score →
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