Master the iOS 12 Measure App: A Quick Guide to Accurate Measurements

Updated at: 14/06/2025

iOS 12's Measure app transforms your iPhone into a handy measuring tool. This quick guide unlocks its full potential, showing you how to accurately measure objects, distances, and even levels. Learn essential tips and tricks for precise measurements, from understanding augmented reality to troubleshooting common issues. Get ready to ditch the tape measure and embrace the power of your iPhone!

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Launch the App

    • Open the Measure app.
    Open the Measure app.
    Launch the App

  2. Initial Scan and First Point

    • Move your iPhone around until the circle appears on the screen. This allows the app to scan the surroundings.
    • Position the starting point of your measurement in the middle of the screen and tap the '+' button.
    Position the starting point of your measurement in the middle of the screen and tap the '+' button. Position the starting point of your measurement in the middle of the screen and tap the '+' button.
    Initial Scan and First Point

  3. Add Subsequent Points

    • Move your iPhone to position the endpoint of your measurement in the middle of the screen and tap the '+' button again.
    • For multiple measurements, repeat step 3 and 4.
    For multiple measurements, repeat step 3 and 4. For multiple measurements, repeat step 3 and 4.
    Add Subsequent Points

  4. Measure Rectangles

    • To measure rectangles, move your camera over a rectangle until an orange outline appears and tap the middle of the outline for length and width measurements.
    To measure rectangles, move your camera over a rectangle until an orange outline appears and tap the middle of the outline for length and width measurements.
    Measure Rectangles

  5. Use the Level Tool

    • To use the level tool, tap 'Level' at the bottom of the screen. Place your device on the surface you want to level; the app will indicate the degree of level.
    To use the level tool, tap 'Level' at the bottom of the screen. Place your device on the surface you want to level; the app will indicate the degree of level.
    Use the Level Tool
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Tips

  • Use the undo button to correct mistakes.
  • Tap a measurement to see conversions to other units.
  • Tap 'Clear' to clear all measurements.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Insufficient Lighting

Reason: The Measure app relies on visual recognition of surfaces; poor lighting can hinder accurate measurements.
Solution: Ensure the area you're measuring is well-lit, using additional lamps or flash if necessary.

2. Incorrect Angle or Orientation

Reason: Tilting your phone or not keeping it parallel to the surface being measured introduces errors in the calculations.
Solution: Hold your phone steady and parallel to the surface, ensuring the phone's camera is pointing directly at the object being measured.

FAQs

Why aren't my measurements accurate?
Inaccurate measurements often result from poor lighting, shaky hands, or the app struggling to track the object. Ensure good lighting, hold your phone steady, and make sure the object is clearly visible to the camera.
Can I measure curved surfaces with the Measure app?
While not perfectly precise, you can get a reasonable approximation by taking multiple measurements along different points of the curve and adding them together. Keep the phone steady and measure in small segments.
My Measure app isn't working. What should I do?
First, ensure your iOS is up-to-date. Then, try restarting your phone. If the problem persists, check your camera permissions and ensure that your phone has a strong internet connection (for AR functionality).