Use a close, straight screenshot
Choose a PNG, JPEG, or WebP image that is 4 MB or smaller. Crop it close to one complete 9 by 9 grid and keep the outside border visible.
Straight screenshots work better than angled photos. Glare, shadows, and decorative fonts can lower recognition accuracy.
Fix the OCR result before starting
Tap any cell in the review grid to add, replace, or remove a digit. Check all 81 cells, including the empty ones.
The app uses the reviewed grid as its starting point. An OCR mistake left here becomes part of the puzzle.
Review filled digits and pencil notes
The importer can recognize filled digits and pencil notes. Each review cell identifies which kind it contains, and you can correct the result before applying the puzzle.
Recognition varies with font, contrast, and note placement. Treat every recognized cell as a draft and check it carefully.
Online recognition sends the selected image for processing
Screenshot OCR is optional. Starting recognition sends the selected image to Sudoku Pilot's serverless endpoint, which forwards it to Sudoku OCR through RapidAPI.
Each online scan uses a metered service that Sudoku Pilot pays for. You are not charged for a scan. Recognition can be unavailable when the site's shared provider quota is exhausted or the service is down, and you can always enter the puzzle manually instead.
The OCR provider's image handling and retention policy is not publicly detailed. Avoid uploading screenshots that contain personal or sensitive information.
After review, the imported grid is stored in your browser and gets the same notes, hints, and technique tools as a generated puzzle. Ordinary gameplay does not require another image upload.
Tips for a cleaner scan
- Crop close to the outside edge of the Sudoku grid.
- Use a straight-on image with even lighting.
- Keep the full border visible.
- Review all 81 cells before starting.
- Check every filled digit and pencil note before applying the import.