What is LiDAR?

LiDAR, an acronym for "Light Detection and Ranging," isn't a novel concept, yet its recent incorporation into devices like the Apple iPhone 12 Pro and iPad Pro has generated significant excitement. This technology determines the distance to an object by measuring the time it takes for a light pulse (often laser-generated) to return. It functions similarly to radar, but instead of radio waves, it uses infrared light. One might liken LiDAR to a bat that navigates using light instead of sound.

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LiDAR Applications

LiDAR finds utility in various fields, including autonomous vehicles, drone technology, and gaming.

LiDAR on the iPhone

Recently, LiDAR technology became available on the iPhone 12 Pro and iPad Pro, boasting an effective range of 16 feet. It emits infrared light pulses and gauges the distance by analyzing the returning signals. This process creates a point cloud, mapping out distances and forming a three-dimensional representation of objects. If this sounds familiar, it's akin to how Apple’s Face ID operates, albeit over shorter distances.

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The Role of LiDAR in Digital Health

LiDAR holds promise for enhancing digital health, from customizing telemedicine solutions to assisting individuals with disabilities. Its potential impact is substantial within this rapidly evolving sector.

Personalizing Telemedicine and Symptom Assessment

LiDAR technology is already influencing medical education through digital platforms and augmented reality, supported by a growing body of research. For instance, the "Complete Anatomy" app showcases the capabilities that LiDAR enables, which can be viewed in the following video.

Imagine a LiDAR-enhanced WebMD application that allows users to identify specific body areas experiencing symptoms. Unlike the traditional WebMD model, which requires users to click on body parts, this futuristic concept could offer a 3D visualization tailored to the user's own anatomy.

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Enhancing Patient Care

AccuVein is one company leveraging augmented reality for easier blood draws and IV placements by visualizing veins beneath the skin's surface. While they currently utilize handheld devices, the integration of LiDAR into smartphones could expand access to this innovative technology.

Image by AccuVein

Medical Imaging Advancements

Though it may take time to fully integrate this technology into consumer smartphones, research indicates potential applications of LiDAR in medical imaging. For example, the U.S. Navy has successfully combined LiDAR with radar for cancer tumor imaging. This technique allows for deeper penetration and enhanced sensitivity, making it well-suited for tumor diagnostics.

LiDAR has also shown promise in 3D scanning, particularly for prosthetics and orthotics, benefiting children who frequently outgrow their devices.

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Camera Enhancements with LiDAR

One of the most highlighted features of the LiDAR sensor is its ability to enhance the iPhone camera. Several applications already utilize the camera for digital health purposes, including heart rate monitoring and detecting potentially cancerous moles. These camera improvements can lead to better tracking of health metrics and more accurate algorithm predictions.

Supporting Individuals with Disabilities

Arguably, one of the most immediate uses of LiDAR in digital health pertains to aiding individuals with disabilities. Enhanced augmented reality experiences can significantly improve daily living. Applications designed for interactive shopping, measuring, and home design already incorporate LiDAR to elevate user experience.

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LiDAR has enabled virtual walkthroughs of 3D environments, providing valuable experiences for those who are homebound or face mobility challenges. The Seeing AI app, designed to assist blind and visually impaired users, has greatly benefited from the LiDAR sensor by introducing a spatial audio feature. Users equipped with headphones can now hear announcements about objects in their vicinity, and they can locate specific items using audio beacons.

Looking Ahead

While still in its infancy, the potential for lip reading using LiDAR presents exciting possibilities for those with hearing and visual impairments. The proliferation of mobile and wearable sensors is driving rapid advancements in digital health, and LiDAR stands out as a technology with the potential to revolutionize medical practices. We welcome your thoughts on future applications of LiDAR in the digital health sector!