The Hidden iPhone Feature: How to Measure Objects With Your Smartphone
A Digital Tape Measure in Your Pocket
We have all faced situations where we need to check the dimensions of furniture or luggage, only to find we don't have a tape measure handy. Few people realise that iPhone users do not need to download third-party applications to solve this problem. Back in 2018, Apple introduced the Measure app as part of iOS, though the company has never heavily advertised it.
The app is available on devices ranging from the iPhone 6s to the first-generation SE. If it is not already on your device, you can download it for free from the App Store at any time. It functions by using your camera and augmented reality (AR) technology to bridge the gap between the digital and physical worlds.
The LiDAR Advantage in Pro Models
If you own an iPhone Pro model, you have an even more precise tool at your disposal. Starting with the iPhone 12 Pro, Apple integrated a LiDAR scanner into its devices. This technology uses invisible lasers to measure depth, making the Measure app both faster and more stable.
With LiDAR, your smartphone can automatically detect a person's height, identify the edges of rectangular objects, and provide more accurate measurements. The process is simple: after launching the app, slowly move your smartphone around the space to allow the software to scan the environment, then mark your start and end points using the "+" button.
Practical Tips and Limitations
The Measure app also includes a "Level" function. You can use it to determine if a picture is hanging straight on a wall or if a surface is perfectly flat. This is particularly useful during home renovations or when assembling furniture.
However, it is important to remember that this digital tool is not intended for high-precision tasks. Apple states that the app works best on objects with distinct edges located between 60 and 300 centimetres away. If you are working on expensive or complex design projects, it is better to stick with a traditional tape measure.
What About the Android World?
Unfortunately, for Android users, a similar built-in solution is more difficult to come by. Google discontinued its equivalent app some time ago, and Samsung's Quick Measure app is officially set to cease operations by the end of 2026. While the Google Play Store offers many third-party alternatives, most are cluttered with advertisements and paid subscriptions, which degrade the user experience. Furthermore, most Android smartphones lack the hardware advantages of LiDAR, which significantly reduces measurement accuracy.