What is the black dot on the back of the iPhone for?

Having used the iPhone for many years, many people will surely wonder what the round hole next to the rear camera of the phone is for? What is its meaning, function, or is it simply a design that carries the Apple brand?

Black dot on the back of iPhone 11 Pro Max

The black dot on the back of the iPhone 11 Pro Max is the key feature for the Secondary Microphone. This is the second mic, also known as the secondary mic, built into the device.

The function of this black dot is to help absorb noise and filter sound during conversations when you use the phone.

When you receive a call to your iPhone, the main mic at the bottom edge of the phone will pick up your voice and transmit it. Meanwhile, the secondary mic at the black dot will focus on eliminating unwanted noise, helping to ensure clear sound and better call quality.

In addition, this black dot also plays an important role in the process of recording audio or video on iPhone. It helps improve the quality and fidelity of the recorded sound.

Usually, this secondary mic is located between the flash cluster and the rear camera of the iPhone. It looks like a small, inconspicuous black dot. Therefore, if you do not learn in advance, users often do not know the important role of this black dot in improving the sound quality of the device.

Black dot on the back of iPhone 12, 13 Pro/Pro Max

The black dot on the back of the iPhone 12, 13 Pro/Pro Max is called the LiDAR scanner.

LiDAR stands for Light Detection and Ranging, a technology that allows measuring the distance to objects using infrared light.

Black dot on the back of iPhone 12, 13 Pro/Pro Max.

The main function of the LiDAR scanner on the iPhone is to create a depth map of the surrounding environment. It is used in many photography functions, such as blurring the background and increasing the speed of autofocus.

Thanks to LiDAR technology, iPhone is able to take photos and record videos with more beautiful and impressive effects.

Additionally, LiDAR scanners also open up many creative applications. For example, some apps allow users to scan and create 3D files of objects, edit, measure, and share them with others.

It also aids in measuring spaces like houses quickly and accurately, saving time and effort.

LiDAR technology isn't new, but Apple introduced it to the iPhone in 2020 with the iPhone 12 Pro/Pro Max and continues to use it in the iPhone 13 Pro/Pro Max.

Since then, it has opened up many creative opportunities and improved user experience when using visual and spatial related functions.

Khanh Son (Synthesis)

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