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Reply to "Distance Measuring Apps for Smartphones"

How do they do it?  I do not know.  What I read is it is "augmented reality or AR." This has been around in some form going back to at least 1992.

Wikipedia says: "AR can be defined as a system that incorporates three basic features: a combination of real and virtual worlds, real-time interaction, and accurate 3D registration of virtual and real objects. 

What all is involved? Wikipedia again: "Modern mobile computing devices like smartphones and tablet computers contain these elements, which often include a camera and microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) sensors such as an accelerometer, GPS, and solid state compass, making them suitable AR platforms."

The developer might be using any hardware in that phone.  The U1 chip and LIDAR have only been on iPhone versions 11 and 12. As developers integrate these, we will see better apps. The Apple AirTag using LIDAR just went on sale in April.  It will resolve down to 0.1' but only from about (Bluetooth range) 20' away. 

For mile marks, I would like to get closer than +- 16' when I have to use coordinates.  Trail authorities are notoriously against ANY markings.  A set of pictures can't go on a course map.  But once you get within that +- 16', you can use Measure and get close enough to something identifiable without carrying a 100' steel tape. 

This is a screenshot of cal course runs.  It would be nice to have someone with a 6S or later try this. 

It is exciting to realize I no longer have to carry a 100' steel tape out on a trail course to provide an excellent description of a point.

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