LiDAR is a technology for processing information about remote objects using optical systems. In smartphones, its presence is still more of a privilege that is currently available to owners of the latest iPhone and iPad models.
In general, LiDAR technology is useful in industrial areas or mapping, but how can it be useful to the average smartphone user? Most Apple owners (who are even aware of the existence of a LiDAR scanner in their gadgets) use it only as a ruler/roulette, and they don’t even know about most of its capabilities. So, what is a LiDAR scanner, where is it located, and how to use it?
What is a LiDAR scanner
In simple terms, LiDAR technology uses a laser to measure the distance to objects around us. To do this, it sends out short pulses of light and measures the time it takes for them to return.
The abbreviation stands for Light Detection and Ranging and is translated from English as “Light Detection and Ranging.” On the latest generations of gadgets, this tool looks like a special built-in sensor. It offers several key advantages:
- helps the camera take clearer photos, especially in the dark;
- uses augmented reality to combine the real and virtual worlds;
- performs 3D scanning and creates three-dimensional models of the environment.
The LiDAR scanner was first introduced in Apple technology in March 2020. Back then, the company announced the release of the iPad Pro, its first device with this sensor.
Which devices have a LiDAR scanner
The LiDAR scanner is currently available in the iPhone Pro and iPad Pro models. The sensor, located between the rear cameras, can detect objects at a distance of up to 5 meters.
Built-in in the models:
- iPhone 12 Pro та 12 Pro Max;
- iPhone 13 Pro та 13 Pro Max;
- iPhone 14 Pro та 14 Pro Max;
- iPhone 15 Pro та Pro Max;
- iPad Pro 11”;
- iPad Pro 13”;
- iPad Air.
How to use LiDAR on iPhone and iPad
LiDAR technology significantly expands the capabilities of a smartphone, although few people know about it. In particular, it can be used to boost your creativity or add extra convenience to everyday life. So here are 10 interesting ways to use LiDAR on iPhone and iPad.
1. Taking photos in the dark. It can be difficult to take a clear photo on your iPhone in low light. In this case, the LiDAR scanner will determine the distance to the object and turn on the camera’s autofocus six times faster than a smartphone without this tool. At least that’s what Apple claims. You don’t need to do anything special, just point the camera at the object and the sensor will automatically trigger if necessary.
2. Measuring distances.. If you don’t have a ruler or tape measure, LiDAR will help you measure the physical distance between two points. To do this, you need to download the free Measure app from Apple, which is part of iOS and iPadOS and can be downloaded from the App Store. It will display the dimensions of the object and tell you if the surface is straight.
3. “Try on” furniture in your interior. Using the IKEA app, you can evaluate whether a table, chair, armchair, sofa, or other furniture that caught your eye on the website will fit into your apartment. To do this, select the item you are interested in and click the “View in room” button. Then you can move it around the room and take a picture when you find the perfect spot. Other apps to virtually view the furniture in your apartment: Wayfair, Housecraft, and Bob’s Discount Furniture.
4. Room measurements. This feature will be useful, for example, during repairs. To do this, download one of the applications, for example, Canvas: LiDAR 3D Measurements. Sign up, create a new home project, and start scanning. To fully cover the room, you need to gradually move the phone. When you’re done scanning, tap the checkmark, and you can view the scanned area and save or share the scan.
5. Training. LiDAR can be used in educational programs, including those related to creativity. For example, the Sketchar: AR Drawing App has an augmented reality assistant powered by LiDAR that tells you how to draw.
6. Sound description of the world around you. The Seeing AI app is an artificial intelligence-based application designed for visually impaired people that can analyze and describe people and objects in the vicinity. By selecting one of the icons offered by the program, you can listen to information about the object located in the application’s field of view. It also warns you of obstacles on the way, such as people, furniture, and other objects.
7. Create a 3D model. Scaniverse – 3D Scanner is an effective tool for creating a 3D image of an object in the real world. The program allows you to select its size and place it in the desired location. Then it can be processed, moved, edited, and shared with friends. You should also try other apps for 3D AR scanners: 3D Scanner App, Polycam — LiDAR&3D Scanner і ARama.
8. Navigation even without GPS. Thanks to 3D maps, a LiDAR scanner can pinpoint a location and be used as a guide, for example, in shopping centers or airports. This can be useful for people who are not well oriented in unfamiliar places. Mobile applications for navigation with LiDAR: Apple Maps, Indoorway, Arcbiz, Canvas.
9. Additives for a smart home. A LiDAR scanner can integrate with home applications to improve automation and control of smart devices. How LiDAR helps to manage a smart home:
- Scanning and mapping. The sensor scans your home and creates a 3D map with the location of furniture, devices, and other objects. You need it to better understand your space and interact more accurately with smart devices.
- Precise control. Thanks to the 3D map, you can give commands to apps, such as “turn off the light by the sofa” or “open the blinds on the window above the table” without specifying the exact names of devices or room numbers.
- Location-based automation. LiDAR can automatically activate or deactivate smart home scenarios based on your location in the house.
- Advanced features. For example, the development of innovative smart home features such as virtual assistants.
Examples of smart home applications with LiDAR integration: Apple Home, IKEA Home Smart and others.
10. Augmented reality games. There are many of them available for iPhone and iPad, for example:
- Angry Birds AR: Isle of Pigs allowing you to superimpose a virtual island of pigs on the real world and aim a slingshot to destroy their buildings.
- AR Robot — virtual robots fight to the death in your home. The player has to choose a room and their mechanical champion, and then start the game. The element of augmented reality is that robots break through the wall, and you try to stop them before they steal your magic power crystal.
LiDAR is not just about improving photos. It has many useful functions that can help in both work and everyday life. Moreover, with the development of technology, this range will only expand, so it’s worth keeping up with the world of technological innovations.
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