GoKawiiliPhones since the 6 include a hidden barometer sensor, usable via apps
Apple has built a barometer into iPhones starting with the iPhone 6 and 6 Plus in 2014, with the exception of the first-generation iPhone SE. The sensor measures barometric pressure to estimate elevation changes, since air pressure drops as altitude increases. Because weather also affects pressure readings, the data is typically combined with GPS altitude and local weather station information for accuracy.
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The barometer's presence has gone largely unnoticed by most users since Apple doesn't surface it directly in a dedicated consumer-facing app, meaning the feature's value depends heavily on third-party apps that tap into it. This suggests hardware capabilities on smartphones can sit underused for years until developers build interfaces that make them accessible and useful.
- Most iPhones since the iPhone 6 (2014) have a built-in barometer, except the first-gen iPhone SE.
- The barometer estimates elevation by measuring changes in air pressure, which decreases at higher altitudes.
- Accurate elevation readings require combining barometric data with GPS and weather information since pressure also shifts with weather.
Garmin Instinct 2 GPS Smartwatch — If you love checking elevation and barometric data on your iPhone, the Garmin Instinct 2 takes that further with a dedicated altimeter and barometer built for rugged outdoor use. It's a natural companion for hikers and climbers who want continuous elevation tracking beyond what a phone can offer on the trail.
See Garmin Instinct 2 GPS Smartwatch on Amazon → Affiliate link — we may earn a commission on purchases, at no extra cost to you. Product picked by AI based on this article; it is not a tested recommendation.Source: engadget.com — Thomas Godwin, 2026-11-14
Published there as: “Your iPhone has a built-in barometer — Here's how to use it”
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