In the era of smartphones, the need to carry a traditional ruler or tape measure can often be alleviated by utilizing the built-in features of your iPhone. Apple’s Measure app, along with some third-party alternatives, transforms your iPhone into a versatile and accurate measuring tool. Here’s how you can make the most of this feature.
Getting Started with the Measure App
The Measure app is pre-installed on your iPhone and can be found in the Utilities folder. To begin, open the Measure app, and it will immediately activate your camera. For optimal results, ensure the object you want to measure is well-defined and is between 0.5 to 3 meters (2 to 10 feet) away from your iPhone[1][4].
Measuring Dimensions
To measure an object, slowly scan it with your iPhone camera until a green dot appears on the screen, indicating the camera is in use. Position the dot at the starting point of your measurement, and a guide line will appear. Move the dot to the endpoint of your measurement, and the app will display the measured length. You can switch between Imperial and metric measurements depending on your preference[1][2].
Measuring Rectangular Objects Automatically
One of the standout features of the Measure app is its ability to automatically detect and measure the dimensions of rectangular objects. Simply align your iPhone camera with the object, and the app will draw lines and estimate both the horizontal and vertical dimensions[1][4].
Additional Features
On newer iPhone models, such as the iPhone 12 Pro and later, the Measure app offers additional features. These include horizontal and vertical guide lines for easier measurements of large objects and the ability to instantly measure a person’s height from the floor to the top of their head, hair, or hat. You can also save measurements from a single session, complete with screenshots, making it easy to access and share them later[4].
Sharing Measurements
Once you have taken your measurements, you can easily share them via Mail, Messages, or other sharing options available on your iPhone. This feature is particularly useful if you need to communicate dimensions to someone else or keep a record of your measurements[1][4].
Alternatives: Third-Party Apps
If you need more advanced measuring tools, consider using third-party apps like Tape Measure™. This app offers a comprehensive toolkit powered by augmented reality, including a tape measure, ruler, height tool, bubble level, and even a 3D floor plan tool. It also supports both Imperial and metric measurements and includes features like snap and chain measurements and a flashlight. However, some features, such as the 3D floor plan tool, require a Lidar-enabled iPhone or iPad[5].
Tips for Accurate Measurements
For the best results, ensure the object you are measuring is well-lit and has clear edges. The Measure app works best with objects that have distinct lines and corners. If you are measuring a large object, use the guide lines to help you align your measurements accurately[1].
Conclusion
Using your iPhone as a ruler is a convenient and accurate way to measure objects without the need for additional tools. Whether you are using the built-in Measure app or a third-party alternative, these tools can significantly simplify your measuring tasks.
Most Important Facts About “Ruler on iPhone”
App Availability: The Measure app is pre-installed on iPhones and can be found in the Utilities folder[1][4].
Measurement Range: Best results are achieved when objects are between 0.5 to 3 meters (2 to 10 feet) away from the iPhone[1].
Automatic Measurements: The app can automatically detect and measure the dimensions of rectangular objects[1][4].
Guide Lines: Newer iPhone models offer horizontal and vertical guide lines for easier measurements of large objects[4].
Sharing Options: Measurements can be shared via Mail, Messages, and other sharing options[1][4].
Third-Party Apps: Apps like Tape Measure™ offer additional tools such as a bubble level, height tool, and 3D floor plan tool[5].
Lidar Requirement: Some advanced features, like the 3D floor plan tool, require a Lidar-enabled iPhone or iPad[5].
Privacy Indicator: A green dot appears at the top of the screen to indicate when the camera is in use for measuring[1].
