Can the phone measure the temperature?

Modern phones are equipped with a variety of sensors that perform various functions — from determining the position of the device in space to adjusting the brightness of the screen depending on the level of illumination. Among them there are also temperature sensors that can measure the temperature of the battery and processor. But can smartphones measure the ambient temperature?

Temperature sensors in phones and smartphones

There were devices on the market capable of assessing ambient temperature, such as the Samsung Galaxy Note 3 and Galaxy S4. However, modern phone models do not have this feature. The main reason is that smartphones often get hot during operation, which makes it difficult to correctly measure air temperature. In previous models, such as the Galaxy Note 3, the case was made of plastic, which made it possible to better isolate the sensor from heating the device. In new models, where metal is more often used, which actively removes heat from the processor, this solution does not work.

Because of this, the temperature sensor could show inaccurate results, which was the reason for its removal from subsequent models. For example, owners of the Galaxy Note 3 have noticed that the sensor readings are accurate only if the device has been at rest for a long time.

Is it possible to measure the air temperature using a phone?

Smartphones are not currently designed to directly measure ambient air temperature. In theory, manufacturers could use calculations to adjust readings, taking into account the difference between the temperature of the processor and the external sensor. But in practice, such solutions are not applied.

Some apps on Google Play claim that they can measure the ambient temperature, but they should not be trusted. In most cases, they use the internal sensors of the device and provide data on the temperature of the battery or processor, rather than the environment. Often the purpose of such applications is to earn money from advertising inserts.

Other useful sensors in smartphones

In addition to temperature sensors, atmospheric pressure (barometer) and humidity sensors are also found in some smartphones. The barometer can be useful for people who are sensitive to pressure changes, as well as for fishermen who need to predict the behavior of fish. The humidity sensor helps to determine how much the perceived temperature differs from the real one, which is important for assessing comfort outside.

As a result:

Phones can measure temperature, but mostly it concerns the internal temperature of components such as the processor and battery. To measure the ambient temperature, a more accurate approach is required to compensate for the effect of heating the device. Thus, modern smartphones lack accurate ambient temperature sensors, but sensors such as a barometer and humidity sensor can significantly improve the quality of life of users by providing them with important information about the state of the environment.

Do you think a temperature sensor is needed in modern smartphones? What benefits could it bring to users and developers? Share your opinion in the comments!