Volvo EX90’s laser sensor can damage a smartphone camera
A video rapidly gaining popularity online demonstrates how the lidar laser system on the roof of the Volvo EX90 damaged the matrix of an expensive smartphone’s camera. When the operator brought the lens close to the laser beam, bright traces appeared on the screen—this was the laser disabling individual pixels of the sensor.
Lidar laser systems, used for distance measurement, are completely safe for human vision. They comply with the Class 1 standard, as confirmed by the American National Standards Institute. However, smartphone cameras, especially in telephoto mode, can be harmed due to the narrow aperture and optical system that focuses the laser beam onto the matrix.
Wide-angle shots will not damage the sensor unless you are very close to the lidar source
This issue is not new—professional operators have faced similar situations during laser shows when beams hit the lens directly. For safe photography of cars equipped with such systems, it is advisable to avoid telephoto mode and getting too close to the laser sensor.
Smartphone manufacturers and automotive safety system providers have not yet commented on this incident. Perhaps additional guidelines for photographing vehicles equipped with such technologies will emerge in the future. For now, owners of such cars should be cautious when photographing their new purchase.