Why do you need a magnetic sensor in a smartphone
Sellers of mobile technology rarely indicate in the description the presence of a magnetic sensor in a smartphone. More often they are limited to the name "compass", implying a single functionality. Because of this, the buyer does not fully understand why a magnetic sensor is needed in a smartphone and how it is useful. Let's try to briefly outline what it is and what functionality it performs.
A magnetic sensor is a small electromagnetic element that is used to equip a smartphone's board. Its task is to capture electromagnetic radiation coming from the outside to a smartphone. Thanks to hardware and software, the gadget uses algorithms to process information. And uses for its own purposes, provided by the manufacturer of the device.
Why do you need a magnetic sensor in a smartphone
Mobile phones were the pioneers in the use of electromagnets in mobile devices. Nokia, Blackberry, and then all other brands, installed a magnetic sensor to make the compass work in their phones. Thanks to the magnet, it was easy to navigate the terrain. Very practical and convenient.
It's strange that decades later, many manufacturers continue to install a magnetic sensor in smartphones, but there is no Compass application among the software installed from the factory. You need to download and install it separately from the store. This approach is unclear until the end.
What functions can a magnetic sensor provide in a smartphone?
The most common way to use a magnetic sensor is to create driving directions in the navigator. The software addresses simultaneously the GPS module and the electromagnet, performs a miscalculation and issues a route. Smartphone manufacturers rarely come up with an interesting solution. Therefore, it is better to use third-party programs right away.
An interesting functionality is offered by the developers of the Google branded store. The smartphone's magnetic sensor is used as a metal detector. But there are too many factors on which the efficiency of the device depends:
- Sensor power (depends on the manufacturer and smartphone model).
- The material of the phone case (better plastic than metal).
- Software compatibility with the smartphone model (common brands are more often supported).
You cannot count on 100% efficiency. The metal detector will work at a distance of 50-200 mm. But this is enough for many to find a lost chain, bracelet or ring in the debris or sand.
The smartphone's magnetic sensor has found applications in the entertainment industry. For example, Google VR glasses work more efficiently when creating additional virtual reality. For these purposes, the presence of a magnetic sensor, gyroscope and accelerometer is recommended. The same set is needed for playing games on a smartphone, if you want to get a full-fledged gamepad.