The Measure app uses the iPhone camera to estimate dimensions when you do not have a tape measure nearby. It is helpful for quick checks around the house, at a store, or when deciding whether an object might fit somewhere.
Measure is available on iOS 12 or later. The most advanced measuring features, including automatic height measurements, work best on iPhone Pro models with LiDAR.
Does This Affect You?
Use Measure when an approximate size is enough. It is handy for furniture, boxes, wall space, and other everyday objects, but it should not replace a real measuring tool for construction, medical, legal, or precision work.
Measure a Straight Line
- Open the Measure app.
- Point the camera at the object and slowly move the iPhone if the app asks you to scan the area.
- Place the white dot at the starting point of the measurement.
- Tap the plus button to set the first point.
- Move the dot to the ending point.
- Tap the plus button again. The estimated distance appears on the screen.
Use good lighting, keep the subject in focus, and hold the iPhone steady for a better estimate. Tap clear, the X button, or shake the phone if you need to start over.
Measure a Person’s Height
- Use an iPhone model with LiDAR support.
- Open Measure and frame the person from head to toe.
- Make sure the person is standing still against a simple background.
- Wait for a line to appear above the head, hair, or hat.
- Read the height shown near the line.
- Tap the shutter button if you want to save a photo with the height overlay.
Height measurement is still an estimate. Shoes, hats, hair, posture, and camera angle can all change the reading.
Use iPhone as a Level
- Open Measure.
- Tap Level, or swipe to the Level view.
- Place the iPhone flat on a surface, or hold it upright against an object.
- Watch the degree reading. The screen turns green at 0 degrees when the surface is level or plumb.
- Tap the screen to set a reference angle if you want to match something other than 0 degrees.
The Level tool works without cellular service or Wi-Fi because it uses sensors built into the iPhone.
More Measure Tips
Rectangles Can Be Detected Automatically
When Measure recognizes a rectangular object, it may outline the edges and offer a suggested measurement. Tap the outline to capture that estimate quickly.
LiDAR Helps Stability
LiDAR-equipped iPhone Pro models can lock onto surfaces faster and usually hold measurements more steadily than non-LiDAR models.
Use Contrast and Light
Plain, dark, glossy, or low-contrast surfaces can confuse the camera. Brighter light and visible edges usually produce better results.
Sources
- Apple Support: Measure object dimensions with iPhone
- Apple Support: Use iPhone as a level
- Apple Support: Measure a person’s height with iPhone