Turn images into queries with visual search

Visual search is an approach search that gives users a way to find results using images as queries. There can be a few different approaches to implementing visual search, for example:

• Allow users to take pictures and upload them into a search query to find similar items

• Use virtual or augmented reality to allow shoppers to point to objects they’re interested in

In all cases, visual search uses advanced machine learning to analyze an uploaded image and return visually similar products from your own catalog — not generic web image results. It connects visual intent directly to your inventory.

Customers can use screenshots, photos from their camera roll, or images taken in real time. The AI model is optimized to recognize fashion items, home goods, electronics, and more — even in busy backgrounds.

Visual search enhances your ability to surface the right products by combining AI with your existing merchandising rules. You stay in control of what gets prioritized, promoted, or excluded.

Yes. Visual search is fully responsive and optimized for mobile-first shopping experiences. You can integrate it into product pages, search bars, or your app’s camera interface.

Customers can use Algolia’s flexible APIs and or connect to other services such as Google’s Cloud Vision API to build compelling visual search capabilities. Most teams can go live in weeks — not months — with full customization and analytics. Read our docs to learn more.