The TrueDepth camera, while primarily associated with iPhones for facial recognition via Face ID, is not a standard feature on the iPad Pro M3. However, the iPad Pro does include advanced technologies that enhance its augmented reality (AR) capabilities. The key AR-related feature on the iPad Pro is the LiDAR Scanner, which is not the same as the TrueDepth camera but shares some similarities in using depth-sensing technology.
LiDAR Scanner in iPad Pro
The LiDAR Scanner on the iPad Pro is a breakthrough technology that measures the distance to surrounding objects up to 5 meters away, working both indoors and outdoors. It operates at the photon level at nano-second speeds, providing detailed depth information about a scene. This depth data, combined with data from the cameras and motion sensors, is processed by the A12Z Bionic chip (or newer chips like the M3) using computer vision algorithms to create a more detailed understanding of the environment[2][4].
Augmented Reality Applications
The LiDAR Scanner enables advanced AR experiences by allowing for instant AR placement, improved motion capture, and people occlusion. Developers can use the Scene Geometry API in ARKit to harness the power of the LiDAR Scanner, creating scenarios that were previously impossible. This includes overlaying virtual objects onto real-world environments with high precision, enhancing educational experiences, and improving product demonstrations[2][8].
TrueDepth Camera vs. LiDAR Scanner
While both technologies use depth-sensing methods, they differ in their application and range. The TrueDepth camera, primarily used for facial recognition, projects a grid of dots and analyzes their distortion to create a detailed depth map of the face. It operates at a shorter range and with higher resolution compared to the LiDAR Scanner, which is designed for longer-range applications and scans larger environments[3].
In summary, the iPad Pro M3's augmented reality features are primarily enhanced by the LiDAR Scanner, not the TrueDepth camera. The LiDAR Scanner provides the depth-sensing capabilities necessary for advanced AR experiences, while the TrueDepth camera is more focused on facial recognition and is not typically included in iPad Pro models.
Citations:[1] https://myfit-solutions.com/en/blog/truedepth-camera/
[2] https://www.apple.com/newsroom/2020/03/apple-unveils-new-ipad-pro-with-lidar-scanner-and-trackpad-support-in-ipados/
[3] https://www.reddit.com/r/AppleVision/comments/144lpow/difference_between_truedepth_camera_and_lidar/
[4] https://isif.org/files/isif/2024-01/Pages%20from%20JAIF-v17-i2_1.pdf
[5] https://www.macrumors.com/roundup/ipad-pro/
[6] https://support.apple.com/en-us/102381
[7] https://www.apple.com/augmented-reality/
[8] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j6Aec2KGVBo
[9] https://stackoverflow.com/questions/47083462/can-i-require-a-user-to-have-a-true-depth-camera-to-download-my-app-from-the-app