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User profile for user: Tx10
Tx10 Author
User level: Level 1
4 points

iPhone XR compass sensor

What type of sensor (or special algorithm) does the iPhone XR use for the compass? Surprisingly I can move a very strong magnet very near the phone (in compass app mode) without affection the compass app reading. If I place a mechanical compass (old fashioned type with moving needle) next to the iPhone and move a magnet near, the mechanical compass is greatly affected while the iPhone compass app display is not altered any. Note, the iPhone compass always reads correctly when the magnet is near or not near.

iPhone XR

Posted on Jun 30, 2022 8:01 AM

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User profile for user: Tesserax
Tesserax
User level: Level 10
152,320 points

Posted on Jun 30, 2022 8:27 AM

Interesting as even Apple states that the Compass could be affected by magnetism.


Important: The accuracy of the compass can be affected by magnetic or environmental interference; even the magnets in the iPhone EarPods can cause a deviation. Use the digital compass only for basic navigation assistance. Don’t rely on it to determine precise location, proximity, distance, or direction. Ref: Use the compass on iPhone - Apple Support

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User profile for user: Tesserax
Tesserax
User level: Level 10
152,320 points

Jun 30, 2022 8:27 AM in response to Tx10

Interesting as even Apple states that the Compass could be affected by magnetism.


Important: The accuracy of the compass can be affected by magnetic or environmental interference; even the magnets in the iPhone EarPods can cause a deviation. Use the digital compass only for basic navigation assistance. Don’t rely on it to determine precise location, proximity, distance, or direction. Ref: Use the compass on iPhone - Apple Support

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iPhone XR compass sensor

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