What is LiDAR?
LiDAR stands for Light Detection and Ranging. It’s a remote sensing method that uses lasers to measure distances. It works by sending out pulses of light and timing how long they take to bounce back from nearby surfaces. The result is a fast, highly accurate measurement of the space around you.
In the past, LiDAR was mostly used in large-scale applications like topographic mapping, autonomous vehicles, and aerial surveys. But now, it’s built into devices many contractors already use on the job.
Newer iPhones and iPads — starting with the iPhone 13 Pro — have built-in LiDAR scanners. That means you can now measure photos on the job site without pulling out your tape or laser measurer.
How LiDAR Works
When paired with your mobile device or drone, LiDAR can do some pretty impressive things:
Measure spaces, surfaces, and elevations with high accuracy
Capture real-world dimensions for estimating and planning
Document progress and changes over time
Identify issues that might not be visible in standard photos
Support faster, more confident decision-making on-site
In other words: LiDAR lets you scan a space and get real measurements — all without pulling out a single tape measure.
Document Jobs with LiDAR
With LiDAR built into your phone, you can quickly gather site measurements on the spot. Whether you’re quoting a job, checking progress, or answering a client question, it gives you the confidence to keep moving forward without second-guessing your numbers.
With LiDAR in your pocket, you can:
Quote jobs faster and more accurately
Reduce manual measuring time
Back up your estimates with visual proof
Build trust with clients by showing clear measurements
LiDAR Mode + CompanyCam
CompanyCam’s LiDAR camera is a powerful measurement tool you can use while documenting your projects. Here’s how it helps on the job:
Quick measurements without extra tools
Easily measure walls, windows, door frames, or property lines using your phone. Whether you’re quoting a job or verifying completed work, LiDAR gives you precision without extra tools.
Capture and store measurements in one place
No need to switch between apps. LiDAR Mode lets you capture measurements and save them directly to your project, right alongside your photos, notes, and reports.
Avoid repeat trips to the job site
LiDAR measurements captured on-site mean fewer mistakes, better estimates, and less time spent going back to re-measure something you missed.
Show the details, skip the confusion
Measurements taken with LiDAR can be viewed by your crew and shared with homeowners, helping everyone stay aligned on scope and expectations.
One LiDAR photo, full team access
When a LiDAR photo is taken using a compatible iPhone or iPad, the depth and measurement data is saved inside the image. That means any team member — regardless of their device — can open the photo in CompanyCam and use the ruler tool to draw and add measurements later.
Put LiDAR to Work on Your Next Job
If you’re using an iPhone Pro or iPad Pro and you’re on CompanyCam’s Elite plan, you’re set to start measuring with confidence. Just open a project, switch on LiDAR mode, and take photos that double as accurate, editable measurements.
Not on the Elite plan yet? Upgrade now to unlock LiDAR tools and other advanced features built for busy crews.
New to CompanyCam? Book a demo to learn more and see how it works.
