Can iPhone Detect Infrared (IR) Light? How to Test IR with Your iPhone Camera
Learn how iPhones detect infrared light using their cameras and how to test IR signals with your iPhone remote control.
Video transcript
iPhones can detect IR (infrared) to some extent through their cameras. To test this, point an IR remote at the iPhone’s camera and press a button on the remote; the IR light may appear as flickering or a light dot on the screen. This can be handy for checking if your remote is functioning correctly.
Questions and answers
Can iPhone cameras really detect infrared light?
Yes, iPhone cameras can detect some infrared light, usually visible as a flickering spot or light when pointed at an IR remote.
How can I test if my IR remote works using an iPhone?
Point your IR remote at your iPhone camera and press a button; if you see a flickering light or dot on the screen, the remote is emitting IR signals.
Why can't I see infrared light with my naked eye but can with the iPhone camera?
Infrared light is invisible to the human eye, but smartphone cameras can detect some IR wavelengths and display them as visible light on the screen.