What Is LiDAR and Why It Matters for Room Scanning

LiDAR measures distance by firing invisible laser pulses and timing their return. In room scanning, this produces geometry accurate to within 1% — about 1–2 cm per wall. Here’s how it works, how it compares to standard cameras and photogrammetry, and when you actually need it.

Which Smarthpones Can Scan Rooms in 3D?

Only smartphones with a LiDAR sensor can produce an accurate 3D room scan with automatic floor plan output. That means iPhone Pro (12 Pro through 17 Pro) and iPad Pro (2020 and later). Here’s the full device list, what LiDAR does that standard cameras cannot, and why the Pro requirement exists.