As technology evolves, it continues to enrich our lives with tools that simplify everyday tasks. One such innovation is the Apple Measure app, which uses augmented reality (AR) technology to turn the iPhone into a virtual tape measure. This is particularly useful for seniors who might find handling traditional measuring tools cumbersome or difficult. This detailed guide will explain how to use the Measure app on your iPhone to measure real-world objects, making tasks like home decorating, space planning, or checking luggage size incredibly straightforward and accessible.
The Measure app is pre-installed on many iPhones, especially those that are AR-capable, which includes most models from the iPhone 6s onwards. To start, locate the Measure app icon on your iPhone’s home screen—it typically looks like a black and white ruler in a diagonal position. Tapping this icon opens the app and activates your iPhone’s camera.
Upon launching the Measure app, you’ll be prompted to move your iPhone around the space. This movement allows the app to calibrate by detecting surfaces and the layout of the space around you. You’ll see a white dot in the center of the screen, which is crucial for beginning the measurement process.
To measure an object, point your iPhone so that the white dot aligns with the point where you want to start measuring. Then, tap the “+” button on the screen to set the starting point of your measurement. Slowly move your iPhone to the next point you wish to measure to, and you will see a live measurement line drawing itself on the screen as you move. When you’ve reached the end of the area you want to measure, tap the “+” button again to set the end point. The app will then display the measurement, which can be seen in either inches or centimeters, depending on your settings.
The Measure app can also automatically detect the dimensions of rectangular objects. By simply pointing your camera at an object like a picture frame or a piece of furniture, the app often displays an automatic measurement box around it. Tapping the “Add” button when this happens allows the app to calculate the object’s length and width instantly.
Beyond simple linear measurements, the Measure app includes a level feature, which is extremely handy for hanging pictures or adjusting furniture. To access the level, swipe left in the app or look for the level option in the menu. Once activated, place your iPhone either on its side or back on the object you wish to check for level. The screen will show a traditional bubble level or a numeric degree readout, helping you ensure the object is perfectly horizontal or vertical.
After you have finished measuring, you can tap the “Clear” button to remove all measurements from the view and start again. If you need to keep a record of your measurement, the app allows you to take a photo of the measurement by tapping the shutter icon on the screen, which saves the image to your Photos app.
The Measure app on the iPhone offers a high degree of accuracy for a tool that fits in your pocket and can be a real asset for seniors. It’s particularly useful for quick checks or when a traditional tape measure is out of reach. By familiarizing themselves with this app, seniors can continue to engage actively with their surroundings, maintain independence, and undertake various projects around the home with confidence and ease.