Install Mediapipe in Python Step by Step

Mediapipe is a powerful framework for building AI and computer vision applications. It is developed by Google. This guide will help you install it easily.

Prerequisites

Before installing Mediapipe, ensure you have Python installed. Python 3.7 or later is recommended. Check your Python version using python --version.

python --version

If you don't have Python, download it from the official website. Also, ensure pip is installed. Pip is Python's package manager.

Install Mediapipe Using Pip

The easiest way to install Mediapipe is using pip. Open your terminal or command prompt and run the following command.

pip install mediapipe

This will download and install the latest version of Mediapipe. Wait for the installation to complete.

Verify the Installation

After installation, verify it by importing Mediapipe in Python. Open a Python shell and run the following code.

 
import mediapipe as mp
print(mp.__version__)

If no errors appear, the installation is successful. The output will show the installed version.

Common Installation Issues

Sometimes, you may encounter errors. One common issue is ModuleNotFoundError. This means Python can't find Mediapipe.

If you face this, check if pip installed it correctly. Reinstall if needed. For more help, read our guide on How To Solve ModuleNotFoundError.

Install Specific Version

If you need a specific version of Mediapipe, use the following command. Replace 0.8.9.1 with your desired version.

pip install mediapipe==0.8.9.1

This ensures compatibility with your project. Always check the version requirements.

Install Mediapipe in a Virtual Environment

Using a virtual environment is good practice. It keeps dependencies isolated. Create one using the following commands.

python -m venv mediapipe_env
source mediapipe_env/bin/activate  # On Windows use `mediapipe_env\Scripts\activate`
pip install mediapipe

This installs Mediapipe only in the virtual environment. Deactivate it later using deactivate.

Test Mediapipe with a Sample Code

To ensure Mediapipe works, run a simple hand tracking example. Copy the code below into a Python file.

 
import cv2
import mediapipe as mp

mp_hands = mp.solutions.hands
hands = mp_hands.Hands()
cap = cv2.VideoCapture(0)

while cap.isOpened():
    success, image = cap.read()
    if not success:
        continue

    image_rgb = cv2.cvtColor(image, cv2.COLOR_BGR2RGB)
    results = hands.process(image_rgb)

    if results.multi_hand_landmarks:
        for hand_landmarks in results.multi_hand_landmarks:
            mp.solutions.drawing_utils.draw_landmarks(
                image, hand_landmarks, mp_hands.HAND_CONNECTIONS)

    cv2.imshow('MediaPipe Hands', image)
    if cv2.waitKey(5) & 0xFF == 27:
        break

cap.release()

This code uses your webcam to detect hands. Press ESC to exit.

Conclusion

Installing Mediapipe in Python is simple with pip. Follow the steps above to get started. Always use a virtual environment for better dependency management.

Mediapipe opens doors to advanced AI applications. Explore its features to build amazing projects. Happy coding!