How neural networks solve image tasks: an overview of 8 leading tools

By 2025, uploading a sample screenshot and receiving a detailed analysis — is no longer science fiction. Artificial intelligence has learned to recognize not only printed text but also handwritten formulas, complex diagrams, and geometric drawings. Optical character recognition combined with advanced AI models has turned an ordinary smartphone into a personal assistant ready to help 24/7. For students and learners, this means new opportunities in preparing for tests and exams. Let’s explore eight services that best handle the task of getting solutions from a photo.

General-purpose platforms: versatility first

BotHub (bothub.ru) — this is an aggregator of many AI models in one place. It includes ChatGPT, Gemini, Claude, and other systems, allowing you to solve problems not only in mathematics but in any other discipline. The interface is optimized for quick file upload with the problem statement. The free plan offers 100,000 “caps” — enough for several requests, and paid options are available from just a few dollars per month (. The platform is constantly updated with new model versions — GPT-5 and Gemini-2.5 Pro are already available.

Gauth AI )gauthmath.com( — a homework helper initially focused on math and physics but over time expanded to biology, economics, and foreign languages. Upload an image of the problem or describe it in text — receive a detailed analysis with all necessary explanations. The advantage is support for many school and university subjects with step-by-step clarification of each stage.

Specialized solvers for mathematics

Photomath )photomath.com( — an app that has become synonymous with “pointed the camera and solved.” The system instantly scans both printed fonts and handwritten notes. Equation or problem — and on the screen immediately not only the answer but also a full step-by-step solution. Photomath covers the entire spectrum of school mathematics: from simple arithmetic to algebra, geometry, and calculus basics. It shows alternative approaches and formats formulas beautifully. Drawback: works only with mathematics, does not solve physics or chemistry. Advanced features require a paid subscription.

Mathway )mathway.com( — another popular calculator-solver that allows you to point the camera at a problem or enter it manually. Marketed as “the most intelligent calculator” for algebra, geometry, trigonometry, and other math areas. The interface is intuitive even for younger students. Minus: step-by-step solutions are fully unlocked only with a subscription; some steps are hidden in the free version. Handwritten text recognition is worse than printed.

Symbolab )ru.symbolab.com( — a mathematical calculator focused on working with full formulas. Solves both simple problems and complex integrals, differential equations. The problem statement can be entered manually or uploaded as an image )supports print and handwritten recognition(. Ideal for high school students and undergraduates: includes algebra, trigonometry, calculus, geometry, plus specialized calculators for physics and finance. Advantage — detailed step-by-step explanations of each action, function graphs, working with complex mathematical topics.

Complex problem solvers

MathGPT )math-gpt.org( — an online tool for solving math, physics, and chemistry problems from photos. The website interface is in English, but the neural network understands Russian well. Choose a subject, upload a photo or enter the problem — within seconds, get a solution with descriptions of all calculations, graphs, and diagrams. The service is completely free, requires no registration, and is positioned as an educational platform. Covers algebra, geometry, analysis, physics, and chemistry. Minus: main menu and reference materials are mostly in English, which may hinder younger students’ use.

Wolfram|Alpha )wolframalpha.com( — a universal computational engine known as “the digital brain.” The system not only searches for a ready answer but also computes results and builds graphs. Covers hundreds of fields: from basic arithmetic to advanced mathematics, physics, chemistry, statistics, and even calorie counting. Solves integrals, differential equations, plots functions, provides step-by-step proofs. A tool favored by scientists, engineers, and students for its accuracy and power. Works via web and mobile apps. Limitation: photo recognition is only available in the Pro version; free mode is limited to text input.

The new generation: intelligent solutions

Nano Banana Pro — the latest system from Google DeepMind based on Gemini 3 Pro, initially positioned as an image generator and editor. However, thanks to combined image analysis and AI reasoning, it can recognize and solve mathematical and other problems from photos. Unique ability — accept a photo of handwritten notes, not only solve the problem but also reproduce the answer in the same handwriting or style. Can format solutions as infographics, diagrams, or illustrations. Works well with text in images, outputting labeled drawings with clear and coherent text in multiple languages — helping to visualize complex concepts.

How to choose a tool?

The choice depends on your needs. For standard school mathematics, Photomath, Mathway, and Symbolab are optimal — they provide quick step-by-step solutions from photos. If you need higher mathematics, physics, chemistry, and data analysis, Wolfram|Alpha is better. MathGPT is versatile: covers mathematics, physics, and chemistry simultaneously, suitable for both students and teachers. BotHub and Gauth are broader platforms with access to multiple neural networks and auxiliary tools.

Don’t forget about new universal models like ChatGPT 5.2, Gemini 3 Pro, and Claude Sonnet 4.5 — capable of assisting with almost any subject thanks to extensive knowledge. These multitasking AI helpers today are distinguished by their exceptional flexibility and power, capable of solving tasks across a wide range of disciplines.