Google’s easy-to-miss trick on millions of Android phones measures the temperature of any object – but four mistakes ruin the reading

GOOGLE Pixel fans can use their phones to take temperature readings of objects, including their bodies.

The Google Pixel 8 Pro has a built-in thermometer app that can measure the temperature of almost any object.

The technology uses a sensor on the back of the phone, close to the camera, in the top right corner.

Taking advantage of the feature is as easy as pointing your phone at an object and tapping the screen.

Start by opening the Pixel Thermometer app and selecting “Object Temperature.”

Next, choose the material of the object you will measure. These options are pre-programmed – some examples are “food”, “drinks” and “shiny metal”.

Position the sensor about two inches from the object for accurate results, although you may need to get closer for smaller objects.

Click “Tap to measure” and let the technology do its work. O reading should appear on the screen after a few seconds.

Google urges users to be careful when measuring the temperature of hot or cold objects.

If you are taking the reading of something like a hot drink or boiling water, wait steam to dissipate before using the app.

It is worth noting that not technology is perfect and the accuracy of a reading depends on several factors.

The proximity of an object to upper or lower limits of the temperature range can play a role, as can material selection.

The size of the object can also influence the reading, as a larger surface area makes it easier to measure temperature.

The temperature difference between the object and the sensor itself can affect accuracy.

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Readings also depend on emissivity, or the amount of energy an object radiates.

You can try to minimize errors by using the app’s built-in feature. characteristics.

Material selection, for example, helps find the emissivity of an object and return more accurate results.

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Among the app’s advantages is the ability to record body temperature – a feature specially approved by the US Food and Drug Administration.

All you have to do is hold your phone to your forehead – it will vibrate when it’s in range.

Once the device is positioned, press the “Tap to Measure” button in the center of the screen.

Slowly move the phone across your forehead towards your temple. The app stops taking a reading after 4 seconds.