Device-specific hardware settings
LiDAR dependent features
Most people call this what the depth scanner enables.
The LiDAR scanner measures distance directly, which improves low light focus, Night mode portraits, and accessibility detection of people and doors.
This setting is present on your iPhone.
- We have this path on file but have not yet confirmed it against an official source.
Where to find it - iOS 14 and later
- Settings
- Accessibility
- Magnifier
LiDAR has no switch. Detection Mode in Magnifier is where it is most visible.
What it does
There is no LiDAR switch. It works automatically where it helps: autofocus in near darkness, portrait depth accuracy, augmented reality placement, and the Detection Mode features in Magnifier.
What changes
When it is on
Not applicable. The scanner is used automatically.
When it is off
Not applicable.
Should you turn it on?
Battery
No real change
Privacy
No real change
Performance
No real change
Cellular data
No real change
Storage
No real change
Out of the box: Used automatically on models that have it.
What your iPhone needs
- Needs an iPhone with a LiDAR scanner
Questions people actually ask
- Does my iPhone have LiDAR?
- It is a Pro model feature from the iPhone 12 Pro onwards. Choose your model above and this page will tell you.
If it is not working
- Detection Mode in Magnifier needs it, which is why the option is missing on most models.
- Night mode portraits require it.