What is the LiDAR Sensor in an iPhone 12 Pro?

A breakthrough in photography and augmented reality (AR) technology, the LiDAR scanner in the iPhone 12 Pro isn't just a fancy gadget—it's a game-changer. Often misunderstood, the LiDAR scanner isn't a lie detector. Instead, it's a powerful tool that enhances the accuracy and performance of both photography and AR applications. In this article, we'll explore how this revolutionary sensor works and what it can do for your iPhone experience.

LiDAR Scanner: More Than Meets the Eye

The LiDAR scanner in the iPhone 12 Pro is a sophisticated sensor that uses laser light to measure distance and reflections. This is the same technology that powers advanced systems in scientific research and industry. By integrating LiDAR into smartphones, Apple has expanded the horizons of mobile photography and AR.

Boosting Photography with LiDAR

The primary purpose of the LiDAR scanner on the iPhone 12 Pro is to improve photography. It detects and measures the tiniest details in the surrounding environment and uses this information to enhance images and videos. For example, in low-light conditions, the LiDAR scanner can detect the smallest light sources and boost them to create brighter photos and videos. This capability is particularly useful in night mode as it helps capture clear images even when there is very little ambient light.

Meeting AR Expectations

Augmented Reality (AR) is another area where the LiDAR scanner excels. Unlike traditional cameras that rely on the phone's camera and software, LiDAR can detect the precise depths and dimensions of objects in real-world environments. This enhances the accuracy and realism of AR applications. With the LiDAR scanner, the iPhone 12 Pro can create extremely realistic AR applications, placing digital objects with pinpoint accuracy in the physical world. This level of precision is on par with what you might expect from devices like the iPad Pro with a LiDAR scanner.

Unlocking Night Mode Portraits

The combination of the LiDAR scanner and the A14 Bionic processors opens up new possibilities for portrait photography in low-light conditions. In Night Mode, the LiDAR scanner enables users to capture stunning portraits with a blurred background (bokeh effect) even in extremely dark environments. This is achieved by the scanner's capability to measure depth in greater detail, allowing computational software to enhance the final image. The A14 Bionic's Neural Engine processes this data seamlessly, delivering top-notch results.

LiDAR Scanner: A New Feature for Pro Models Only

Not every iPhone 12 model comes equipped with the LiDAR scanner. It is only available on the iPhone 12 Pro and 12 Pro Max. This feature distinguishes the Pro models from the standard iPhone 12, elevating the device to a whole new level. With the LiDAR scanner, users can expect a variety of new AR experiences that weren't possible before. These features transform the iPhone 12 Pro into a powerful tool for both photography and augmented reality applications.

Conclusion

The LiDAR scanner in the iPhone 12 Pro is a testament to Apple's commitment to innovation. By leveraging cutting-edge technology, the LiDAR scanner enhances the user experience in both photography and AR. Whether you're a professional photographer or an enthusiast trying out AR, the LiDAR scanner in the iPhone 12 Pro offers unparalleled capabilities. Embrace the future of mobile technology and discover what the LiDAR scanner can do for you.