Microsoft Retires Lens Scanner App, Directs Users to OneDrive Alternative

Microsoft is sunsetting its popular Lens scanner app for iOS and Android, with removal from app stores on February 9, 2026, and full shutdown by March 9, 2026. Users are advised to transition to OneDrive's scanning feature.

Microsoft has initiated the retirement process for its Lens scanner app, a tool downloaded over 50 million times across iOS and Android platforms. Originally announced in August 2025 with a September timeline, the company revised the schedule this week, confirming the app will disappear from app stores on February 9, 2026, with scanning functionality ceasing entirely on March 9, 2026.

Why This Matters

Lens (previously Office Lens) excelled at converting physical documents into digital formats, supporting printed/handwritten text extraction and exports to PDF, Word, PowerPoint, and Excel. Its near-perfect 4.9/5 rating on Google Play and widespread adoption made it a go-to solution for mobile document scanning. Industry analysts note this follows Microsoft's pattern of consolidating standalone tools into core products like OneDrive and Microsoft 365.

Transition Timeline

February 9, 2026: Removal from Apple App Store and Google Play Store
March 9, 2026: Scanning functionality disabled
Post-shutdown access to historical scans (MyScans) requires:
- Retaining the installed app
- Remaining signed into the last-used Microsoft account

Practical Migration Steps

Microsoft explicitly directs users to OneDrive's scanning alternative:

Open the OneDrive mobile app
Tap the + button in the bottom corner
Select Scan photo

Key Limitations: Unlike Lens, OneDrive's scanner requires cloud storage—scans automatically save to OneDrive with no local device storage option. For offline workflows, consider third-party alternatives like Adobe Scan or Apple Notes.

Broader Consolidation Trend

This retirement aligns with Microsoft's recent product streamlining:

July 2025: Authenticator's password autofill deprecated
October 2026: Microsoft Publisher sunset from Office suite

Security professionals emphasize exporting historical Lens scans before March 2026. Administrators should notify teams about the timeline, especially in organizations relying on Lens for document workflows.

For documentation on OneDrive scanning, visit Microsoft's official guide.