The Measure app on your iPhone is a powerful tool that turns your device into a virtual ruler and level. With the app, you can measure physical objects, dimensions of spaces, and even check if a surface is level, making it extremely useful for quick DIY projects, setting up furniture, or simply measuring items on the go. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about using the Measure app on your iPhone.

Understanding the Measure App

The Measure app uses augmented reality (AR) and your iPhone’s camera to estimate distances and dimensions. While not as precise as a physical measuring tape, it’s quite accurate for general measurements and small projects.

Requirements:

The Measure app is available on iPhones running iOS 12 or later.

You’ll get the best results on newer models equipped with the LiDAR sensor, such as iPhone 12 Pro and later, as this sensor improves depth-sensing and measurement accuracy.

Opening the Measure App

The Measure app is usually pre-installed on your iPhone.

To access it:

1. Go to Home Screen: Find the Measure app icon, or use the search bar by swiping down on the Home Screen and typing “Measure.”

2. Open the App: Tap on the Measure app to launch it.

When you first open it, the app may ask for access to your camera. Make sure to grant permission, as it’s essential for the app’s functionality.

How to Measure Objects with the Measure App

Using the Measure app is simple.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to measuring objects:

Step 1: Align Your iPhone

Hold your iPhone steady and align it with the object you want to measure.

Move your iPhone around a bit, if prompted, to allow the app to recognize the surrounding space and calibrate.

Step 2: Start Measuring

1. Point the Dot at the Starting Point: You’ll see a white dot or crosshair in the center of the screen. Position this over the start of the object you want to measure.

2. Tap the Plus Button: When the dot is aligned with the starting point, tap the + button on the screen to set your starting point.

3. Drag to the Endpoint: Move your iPhone slowly to the endpoint of the object or area you want to measure.

4. Tap the Plus Button Again: When you reach the endpoint, tap + again to set the end of the measurement.

The app will display the measurement on the screen, usually in inches or centimeters, based on your device settings.

Step 3: Additional Measurements

You can continue measuring from the endpoint of your last measurement, or tap Clear to start a new measurement.

Multiple measurements can be added on one screen to measure different segments of the object.

Using the Level Feature

The Measure app also includes a Level tool, useful for checking if surfaces are perfectly horizontal or vertical.

Here’s how to use it:

Accessing the Level Tool:

1. Open the Measure App: Open the Measure app.

2. Switch to Level: Tap on the Level tab at the bottom of the screen.

Using the Level Tool:

1. Placing Your iPhone on a Surface: Place your iPhone flat on the surface you want to check for levelness. When the surface is level, the app will show 0° and turn the screen green.

2. Vertical Leveling: You can also hold your iPhone vertically against a surface (like a wall). The app will indicate if it’s level or slightly tilted.

This feature is especially handy for hanging pictures, aligning furniture, or ensuring surfaces are level in home projects.

Taking Measurements of Rectangular Objects Automatically

With newer iPhone models, the Measure app can automatically detect rectangular objects like a book or picture frame, making measurements quicker and more precise.

Steps:

1. Align the Camera: Point your iPhone’s camera at the object, and the app will recognize its edges.

2. Tap to Measure: A box will appear around the detected object. Tap the + button to confirm, and the app will display the measurements of the object’s sides.

This feature works best with flat, rectangular objects and provides measurements for the width and height instantly.

Saving Measurements

Unfortunately, the Measure app doesn’t automatically save your measurements, but you can save a snapshot of your screen.

Steps to Save a Measurement:

1. Take a Screenshot: Press the Side Button and the Volume Up button simultaneously (or the Home button and Side button on older models) to take a screenshot of the measurement.

2. Edit and Save: Tap the screenshot thumbnail in the bottom-left corner to edit, crop, or mark up your screenshot if desired, then save it to your Photos.

Alternatively, you can use the Copy feature in the Measure app to save measurements temporarily in your clipboard and paste them into Notes or other apps.

Tips for More Accurate Measurements

While the Measure app provides reasonably accurate results, certain tips can help you get the best measurements possible.

Tips:

1. Good Lighting: Use the app in well-lit environments to improve visibility and tracking.

2. Hold the Phone Steady: Keep your phone steady and close to the object for better accuracy.

3. Avoid Reflective Surfaces: Shiny or reflective surfaces may interfere with the app’s ability to detect edges accurately.

4. Use iPhones with LiDAR: If you have an iPhone with a LiDAR scanner, such as the iPhone 12 Pro or later, you’ll benefit from enhanced measurement accuracy.

Keep in mind that while the Measure app is accurate for casual use, it may not be suitable for professional-grade measurements.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If the Measure app isn’t working as expected, here are some common troubleshooting steps.

Issues and Solutions:

1. Measurement Drifts or Seems Off: Try resetting the app by moving the iPhone in a circular motion to recalibrate it.

2. App Not Detecting Object Edges: Ensure there is enough contrast between the object and the background for the app to detect edges.

3. Blurry or Inaccurate Measurements: Clean your camera lens and make sure you’re in a well-lit area.

4. App Not Opening or Crashing: Restart your iPhone, or check for iOS updates in Settings > General > Software Update.

If these steps don’t work, uninstalling and reinstalling the app may also help resolve any bugs.

Alternative Uses for the Measure App

The Measure app can be useful for various everyday tasks beyond standard measurements.

Creative Uses:

1. Check Suitcase Dimensions: Quickly check if your luggage meets airline carry-on requirements.

2. Measure Wall Space for Décor: Estimate the size of frames, mirrors, or wall art.

3. Calculate Shelf Space: Measure items to ensure they’ll fit on a shelf or in storage.

4. Measure Large Objects Outdoors: You can even measure larger objects like furniture, doors, or windows.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Q: Is the Measure app accurate enough for precise projects?

The Measure app is generally accurate within a small margin, but it may not be precise enough for projects requiring exact measurements. For those, a physical measuring tool is still recommended.

2. Q: Can I use the Measure app on older iPhones?

Yes, but newer iPhones with the LiDAR scanner (such as iPhone 12 Pro and later) provide better accuracy and faster results.

3. Q: What should I do if the app is not recognizing an object?

Try repositioning the iPhone or adjusting the lighting. The Measure app performs best with objects that have clear edges and are well-lit.

Conclusion

The Measure app on iPhone is a practical tool for taking quick measurements and checking levels on the go. With easy-to-use features and the convenience of AR technology, it’s perfect for household tasks, DIY projects, and daily measurements. By following this guide, you’ll be able to make the most of the Measure app, turning your iPhone into a handy measuring device for a variety of uses.