MKBHD Warns Car LiDAR Damages iPhone 16 Pro Camera

Popular tech reviewer Marques Brownlee, known as MKBHD, has issued a serious warning to smartphone users. He revealed that his iPhone 16 Pro’s camera was permanently damaged by an unexpected source. The damage appeared as a cluster of bright dots in all his photos and videos. This issue was caused by the powerful LiDAR system from a modern vehicle.

iPhone 16 Pro Camera Sensor Permanently Damaged by Car LiDAR

Marques Brownlee discovered the damage while filming content. He initially thought the bright spots were lens smudges or a software glitch. After cleaning and troubleshooting, the dots remained permanently visible. He confirmed the camera sensor itself was irreversibly burned.The damage source was a LiDAR scanner on a Volvo EX90. LiDAR uses concentrated laser beams to map surroundings for autonomous driving. These lasers are safe for human eyes but can fry delicate camera sensors. The incident was documented in a recent video on his MKBHD YouTube channel.

Why Smartphone Cameras Are Vulnerable to Laser Damage

Professional cameras have strong infrared filters protecting their sensors. Smartphones prioritize a slim design, often using weaker protection. This makes their sensors highly vulnerable to intense light sources. A direct hit from a LiDAR laser can cause instant, permanent damage.The problem is not unique to the iPhone 16 Pro. Any smartphone with a camera is potentially at risk. The damage requires a full camera module replacement to fix. This is a costly repair that often isn’t covered by standard warranties.Reports from Reuters have highlighted the growing use of automotive LiDAR. As self-driving technology advances, more cars will feature these powerful scanners. This creates a new, widespread risk for anyone filming near modern vehicles.

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This incident serves as a critical warning to all smartphone users. Be extremely cautious when pointing your camera at vehicles with visible sensors. The iPhone 16 Pro LiDAR damage issue highlights a hidden danger of modern technology. Protecting your device requires awareness of these emerging risks.

Thought you’d like to know

What is LiDAR and where is it commonly found?

LiDAR stands for Light Detection and Ranging. It is a laser-based scanning system. It is commonly used in modern cars for advanced driver-assistance features and self-driving capabilities.

Can LiDAR damage from a car be repaired?

The damage to the camera sensor is permanent. It cannot be fixed with software or cleaning. The only solution is to replace the entire camera module, which is an expensive repair.

Are Android phones also at risk from LiDAR damage?

Yes, any smartphone camera sensor is vulnerable. The risk applies to iPhones, Android devices, and other brands. All rely on similar imaging sensors that can be damaged by powerful lasers.

How can I prevent my phone’s camera from being damaged?

Avoid pointing your phone’s camera directly at any vehicle’s sensors. Be particularly cautious around cars known for autonomous driving features. Treat unknown sensors on cars with the same caution as a laser pointer.

Which car models use this type of LiDAR technology?

Many new models from brands like Volvo, Mercedes-Benz, and Tesla incorporate LiDAR or similar systems. The Volvo EX90 was specifically mentioned in this incident. The technology is becoming standard in new premium vehicles.