Modern phones have become more shock- and water-resistant, but a less obvious danger threatens their camera sensors: lasers. More and more users are discovering the hard way that laser beams, whether from a show or a vehicle equipped with LIDAR, can cause irreversible damage.
LIDAR in cars: a real risk for camera sensors
One of the most telling cases comes from a user who filmed a Volvo EX90. This electric SUV, like other recent vehicles, is equipped with a LIDAR positioned on the roof. This sensor uses an infrared laser to analyze its environment. But when aimed at a smartphone lens, it can literally fry the photosites in the camera sensor, more commonly known as the sensor pixels.
Volvo has acknowledged the risk and has issued a clear warning on its website: "Do not point a camera directly at the LIDAR." However, some precautions can limit damage, such as the use of filters or optical protection. But as a general rule, it's best to avoid aiming your smartphone at a LIDAR sensor.
Laser shows, a threat well-known to professionals
Another common scenario: events with light shows and laser effects. Recently, a Galaxy S24 Ultra user shared his experience on Reddit after a show of this kind. The result? A permanent white dot and strange lines appeared in his photos. According to internet users, it seems to be a burn caused by a laser beam.
This phenomenon is not new to specialists. The International Laser Display Association (ILDA) has long pointed out that camera sensors are far more sensitive than the human eye. Even if the lasers used in concerts meet eye safety standards, they can seriously damage a camera sensor if the beam enters the lens directly. You have been warned.
Source: The Drive
0 Comments