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Measure obstacle distance with LiDAR

Point a compatible iPhone Pro with LiDAR at an obstacle. Ask for a spoken distance indication, or use approach beeps that become faster as the obstacle gets closer. Measurements depend on the device, the surface and how you hold the phone; they are a complement to your usual mobility aids.

Safety notice: Errors and missed detections are possible. Distances and descriptions do not guarantee that a passage is clear or safe. Keep using your mobility aids and do not decide to cross a road or pass an obstacle based on this response alone. Detailed precautions.

How the two modes work

Recording in French; explanation in English below.

Watch the video and read its description

How does Lumyeye Pro use LiDAR to measure an obstacle?

Mode 1, Distance mode. Say "distance mode" and Lumyeye Pro uses the LiDAR sensor to give you the distance to the obstacle in view immediately, aloud.

Mode 2, Beep mode. The beeps become closer together as the obstacle in view gets nearer. Their rhythm is a complementary cue: silence does not guarantee that there is no obstacle. Double-tap the screen to stop Beep mode.

Compatible hardware. Distance measurement uses the physical LiDAR sensor on a compatible iPhone Pro. Keep the rear sensor facing the obstacle you want to measure.

Mobility limits. LiDAR measures an obstacle in the camera’s view. It may miss hazards at ground level or to the sides, so continue using your white cane, guide dog or other mobility practices.

Frequently asked questions

Hardware, beeps, safety, your questions.

Can all iPhones use Lumyeye Pro LiDAR?

No. Only iPhone Pro and Pro Max (iPhone 12 Pro and later) include the LiDAR sensor. On a standard iPhone, Lumyeye Pro announces that the measurement is unavailable.

Does LiDAR work in the dark?

Yes. The LiDAR sensor uses infrared light and can measure distance in a dark room or at night.

What does the rhythm of the beeps mean?

The beeps become closer together as you approach the obstacle in view. They indicate approach; they do not guarantee a clear path or detect every obstacle around you.

How do I stop Beep mode?

Double-tap the iPhone screen to leave Beep mode before making another request.

Does LiDAR replace a white cane or guide dog?

No. LiDAR measures an obstacle in front of the rear camera. It does not detect everything at ground level or to the sides. Keep using your usual mobility aid.

Practical tips

Master Lumyeye Pro LiDAR.

Hold the iPhone facing the obstacle, at chest height. Point the rear LiDAR sensor at what you want to measure.
Choose the mode for the situation. Ask for a spoken distance indication, or use Beep mode to hear changes in proximity. The measurement depends on the device, the surface and how you hold the phone; it does not guarantee centimeter accuracy.
Combine LiDAR with visual description. LiDAR measures distance; use a separate visual description feature when you need information about the object itself.
Get familiar with the rhythm in a known environment first. Keep your usual mobility aids. Slow or silent beeps do not mean that a path is clear.
Stop the beep mode before other requests. Stop Beep mode before making another request.

Explore further

Related features.

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Lumyeye Pro on iOS 17.6+ (LiDAR required: iPhone 12 Pro and later), from $16.99/month. Free trial, no credit card.

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