OpenCV, or Open Source Computer Vision Library, is a powerful open-source library designed for computer vision and machine learning applications. It provides a comprehensive set of over 2500 optimized algorithms that facilitate tasks such as image processing, video analysis, and object detection. OpenCV supports multiple programming languages, including C++, Python, and Java, making it accessible for developers across various platforms like Windows, Linux, and macOS. Its extensive community and resources enable users to implement advanced computer vision techniques in real-time applications, enhancing the capabilities of projects in fields such as robotics, augmented reality, and surveillance.