Online RulerScreen or camera ruler?
Use the screen ruler when the object fits against the display and you can line up both ends. Use camera measuring when the points are on a wall, floor, or other surface away from the phone. In the Google Play edition of AR Ruler, camera measuring uses optional ARCore on supported Android hardware.
- The screen ruler shows centimeters or fractional inches. The screen ruler measures from the fixed zero at the left end to wherever you place the movable marker.
- Camera modes cover point-to-point distance, polyline length, planar area, and angle.
- The Google Play edition has a screen fallback. The Amazon and Galaxy editions are screen-only and ad-free.
- Look at what you need to record. Pick a screen reading for a small part with visible ends. Pick a camera mode for points you can see in the room but cannot put against the display.
- For a screen reading, check the saved scale against your reference after any browser zoom or display change. Line up the near end with zero and move the marker to the far end.
- For a camera reading, choose the mode for the shape. Frame the starting point, then place each point at the physical spot you want the measurement to include.
- Review the points before recording the reading. If a point lands on the background, repeat the measurement with that point clearly in view. Copy or share the reading if you need it outside the app.
Pick the camera mode
Use distance for a straight span between two points. Use polyline for a path that bends, placing a point at each turn. Use planar area for a boundary whose corners lie on the same flat surface. Use angle when you need the opening between two edges. Start with a clear view of the corners or ends. If an object hides a point, change where you stand so you can place it on the intended spot.
Read a small part
A screen ruler works well for a flat object such as a washer when you can see where its edges meet the scale. Place the object gently on the display with its near edge at zero. Look straight at the screen and move the marker to the opposite edge. If you cannot hold the part still or see where its edge meets the scale, reposition it and try again.
Save a reading
The Google Play edition keeps up to five readings in local history and offers copy and share. Copy a reading into your notes if you need a separate record. After you consent, ads are limited to a banner in history and a full-screen ad after saving. The measuring view is ad-free. The edition has no purchases.
What if my phone lacks ARCore support?
Use the screen fallback in the Google Play edition for objects you can line up against the display.
Which mode measures a path around a corner?
Use polyline and place a point at the turn. Each segment follows the path between the points you set.
Can I use the camera in the Amazon or Galaxy edition?
Those editions provide the screen ruler. Camera modes are part of the Google Play edition on supported Android hardware.