LiDAR scanner reserved only for new iPhone 13 Pro models – Leaker

Apple leaker Dylandkt shared that the LiDAR scanner will be iPhone 13 Pro models’ exclusive feature. Like iPhone 12 series, the next-generation smartphone series will reportedly have the same size four models: 5.4-inch mini. 6.1-inch base, 6.1-inch Pro, and 6.7-inch Pro Max. Previously, Wedbush analyst Daniel Ives claimed that Apple will introduce camera upgrades across the upcoming iPhone 13 series by featuring LiDAR scanners in all four models. But tech analyst Ming-Chi Kuo refuted that report and said that LiDAR will be reserved for Pro models.

Apple changed its mind and will ship iPhone 13 Pro models with LiDAR scanner

Confirming Kuo’s claims @Dylandkt tweeted that Apple will ship the Pro models with distance measuring scanner but also mentioned that the company did contemplate featuring LiDAR scanner across the upcoming iPhone series.

LiDAR will only be coming to the pro iPhone models. Earlier this year it seemed Apple wanted to release all iPhone 13/12S models with LiDAR but due to one reason or another, it won’t be this year.

Working at the photon level at nano-second speeds, the LiDAR scanner measures the distance to surrounding objects up to 5 meters to deliver new depth frameworks and Augmented Reality experience. Apple first introduced the technology in iPad Pro (2020), and then in iPhone 12 Pro and iPhone 12 Pro Max. The cutting-edge depth-sensing technology, along with Ultra-wide camera and AR apps allows users to do more on their devices by calculating “how long it takes light to reflect back from objects, so it can create a depth map of any space users’ are in. Because it’s ultrafast and accurate, AR apps can now transform a room into a realistic rainforest or show them exactly how a new sneaker will fit.” – Apple

Other reports detail that the iPhone 13 Pro models will have improved ultra-wide lens with autofocus. Therefore, both Pro models will have bigger camera modules: the 6.1-inch Pro model’s camera module will be slightly bigger and 6.7-inch Pro Max will have a much larger camera module than the current iPhone 12 Pro Max. In addition, the iPhone 13 Pro models will be slightly thicker and will come with a 120Hz refresh rate for always-on display.