Methods for detecting ultrasonic images are briefly reviewed, and discussed in light of their potential application to nondestructive test problems. In a typical nondestructive test system involving a water immersion tank, the ultrasonic image detector should respond to an ultrasonic intensity of 10−2W/cm2or less. This requirement eliminates from consideration number of detection methods involving photographic, chemical, or thermal mechanisms. Of the remaining image detection systems, only a few have been applied to nondestructive test problems. These include the surface relief technique, the Pohlman cell, and scanning methods involving piezoelectric transducers. The latter method has been most used for image applications, with mechanical movement of the transducer(s) in aCscan method. Electron scan of a single piezoelectric detector to provide a television presentation is coming into wider use. A description of one such system is given. For a thin, flat inspection object, the system offers good inspection speed, resolution, and sensitivity to inhomogeneities. Thick, irregularly shaped inspection objects present problems because lens systems are involved. Lenses for imaging are not well developed. Also, the use of a lens tends to slow the inspection of a thick object because one must examine the object by focusing at different depths. Pulsed television systems and holographic techniques offer some promise in that area. A new phase‐sensitive color television ultrasonic image system offers hope for improved detection of subtle discontinuities.