What is This Cloud is a free AI-powered web tool that identifies and classifies cloud types from user-uploaded sky photos, giving instant meteorological context for weather enthusiasts, students, and photographers. Trusted by over 100,000 analyses across 50+ countries with a 99% user satisfaction rating, it turns any sky photo into a learning opportunity.
What is What is This Cloud?
What is This Cloud is an online cloud identification tool that uses AI to analyze uploaded sky photos and output the likely cloud type, species, typical weather, altitude, and formation details. It accepts PNG or JPG images up to 10 MB and runs in any modern web browser on desktop or mobile. The service offers a free tier with one analysis credit; unlimited use requires a Pro subscription.
Key Features
- AI cloud recognition — Models trained on real sky photos to distinguish major cloud genera and species, including cumulus, stratus, cirrus, altocumulus, nimbostratus, and more.
- Instant classification — Returns results within seconds, including cloud type, structural hints, and contextual information suitable for field checks or homework.
- Meteorology-aware explanations — Each identification relates the cloud type to typical weather, altitude bands, and formation processes, aligned with international cloud atlas concepts.
- Free tier available — New users can try one free analysis without a subscription; additional analyses require upgrading to Pro.
- Mobile-friendly design — Works on phones, tablets, and desktop browsers, allowing users to take and upload photos directly from their device.
- Rich educational content — Provides photography tips, cloud characteristics, and implications for upcoming weather, making it a learning tool as well as an identifier.
Who is it for?
- Weather enthusiasts — Identify clouds they observe and learn how each type relates to upcoming weather conditions.
- Students studying meteorology — Use the tool to practice cloud classification and reinforce textbook knowledge with real sky photos.
- Photographers — Recognize interesting cloud formations and get tips on capturing them effectively.
- Outdoor enthusiasts — Quickly assess sky conditions to anticipate weather changes during hikes, camping, or other activities.
How does it work?
- Upload or capture a clear sky photo showing cloud shapes and textures (PNG or JPG, under 10 MB).
- The AI model analyzes the image for shape, texture, height cues, and context.
- A report appears with the suggested cloud type, similar types, typical weather, altitude, and photography tips.
Pricing
What is This Cloud operates on a freemium model. The free tier provides one credit for a single cloud analysis. Upgrading to Pro unlocks unlimited analyses. Specific pricing is available on the pricing page.
FAQ
How accurate is the AI identification?
Accuracy depends on photo quality, lighting, and how typical the scene is. Clear edges, natural color, and ample sky context improve results. The tool is intended as educational guidance, not a substitute for official weather forecasts or aviation briefings.
Which cloud types can it identify?
The system covers major genera and common species: cumulus, stratus, stratocumulus, altocumulus, altostratus, nimbostratus, cirrus, cirrocumulus, cirrostratus, cumulonimbus, and related variants.
Is the tool really free?
Yes, you can use one free analysis without paying. After that, you need to subscribe to Pro for additional uses.
What makes a good photo for identification?
Daylight photos with visible cloud structure (base, top, or layer texture) work best. Wide shots are preferred over tight crops. Avoid blown-out skies or heavy backlighting.
