A flatbed photo scanner connected to a traditional computer is generally the preferred method for creating digital copies of printed photos. While this method is still popular with those who want the highest quality and accurate reproduction/archiving, mobile devices have broadened the scope of digital photography. Smartphones can not only take great photos, but they can also scan and save old photos. All you need is a good photo scanner app.

Each of the following options (in no particular order) has unique and useful aspects that allow you to scan photos using a smartphone/tablet.

If you like it quick and easy, Google PhotoScan is the right choice for your photo digitizing needs. The interface is simple and to the point: PhotoScan only scans photos, but in a way that virtually eliminates the dreaded glare. The app prompts you to place a photo within the frame before pressing the shutter button. When the four white dots appear, your task is to move the smartphone so that the center aligns with each dot, one by one. PhotoScan takes the five snapshots and stitches them together, correcting the perspective and eliminating glare.

All in all, it takes about 25 seconds to scan one photo: 15 for aiming the camera and 10 for PhotoScan to process. Compared to many other apps, PhotoScan's results retain much better quality/sharpness, despite its tendency to be slightly more exposed. You can preview each scanned photo, adjust the angles, rotate it, and delete it if necessary. When you're done, a single click saves all scanned photos to your device in batches.