
The highest-rated free OCR extension for extracting text from images, videos, and PDFs.
Copyfish is a sophisticated OCR engine designed as a cross-platform browser extension (Chrome, Firefox, Edge) that bridges the gap between static media and digital text. Architecturally, it utilizes the OCR.space API to perform high-accuracy character recognition on non-selectable media types including protected PDFs, YouTube video frames, and interactive infographics. In the 2026 market landscape, Copyfish positions itself as an essential utility for data analysts and language learners, offering a 'What You See Is What You Copy' workflow. Unlike traditional OCR software that requires file uploads, Copyfish operates on the DOM level, allowing users to draw a selection over any part of their screen. Its technical stack includes advanced preprocessing filters to handle low-contrast text and specialized support for CJK (Chinese, Japanese, Korean) characters. By integrating translation layers directly into the extraction modal, it serves as a real-time localization tool. The 2026 version emphasizes local-first processing options to mitigate privacy concerns while maintaining cloud-based acceleration for complex document layouts.
Captures frames from HTML5 video players and runs OCR without pausing the media stream.
Verified feedback from the global deployment network.
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Uses deep learning models to recognize text in complex backgrounds or low-resolution captures.
A lightweight companion app that extends OCR capabilities to the entire OS, not just the browser.
Sends OCR output directly to translation APIs and displays results in a side-by-side modal.
Specific algorithms for Chinese, Japanese, and Korean character segmentation and vertical text support.
Option to use local WASM-based OCR engines for sensitive data extraction.
Identifies image layers within PDFs that lack a text layer and applies OCR selectively.
Data in infographics or chart images cannot be highlighted or copied for analysis.
Registry Updated:2/7/2026
Hard-coded subtitles in foreign films are not selectable for dictionary lookup.
Error messages in images or remote desktop sessions are tedious to retype.