Based on research and available information, the iPhone 8 does not have a user-controllable, visible laser beam feature. However, there are a few areas related to lasers and the iPhone 8 that were subject of discussion and technical information around its release:
* Pre-Release Rumors and Speculation: Before the iPhone 8 was released in 2017, there were reports and analyses from sources like Fast Company and analysts like Ming-Chi Kuo suggesting that Apple was exploring or intended to include a rear-facing 3D laser system, possibly a Vertical-Cavity Surface-Emitting Laser (VCSEL). This rumored system was anticipated to enhance augmented reality (AR) experiences by improving depth sensing and to provide faster and more accurate autofocus for the camera. However, this feature did not materialize in the final iPhone 8 product. Research from this period primarily consists of these news reports and market analyses discussing the potential integration and the technical benefits of such a system.
* Internal Lasers and Class 1 Laser Product Classification: Apple officially classifies the iPhone 7 and later models, including the iPhone 8, as Class 1 Laser products. This classification indicates that the device contains one or more lasers, but under normal use, the emitted laser radiation is not hazardous. These internal lasers are typically low-power and operate in the infrared spectrum (invisible to the human eye). They are used for various internal functions, such as the proximity sensor that turns off the display when you hold the phone to your ear during a call. Technical information from Apple Support documents confirms this classification and advises against disassembly or repair by unauthorized personnel due to the potential for exposure to these infrared laser emissions. Research in this area would involve understanding laser safety standards (like IEC 60825-1) and the specific components within the iPhone that utilize these low-power lasers.
* Contrast with Later Models (LiDAR): While the iPhone 8 did not have a rear-facing 3D laser system, later iPhone Pro models (starting with the iPhone 12 Pro) introduced a LiDAR scanner on the back. LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) is a technology that uses lasers to measure distances and create a 3D map of the environment. Research and studies exist that evaluate the performance and applications of the LiDAR scanner in these later models, particularly for AR, photography (e.g., in low light and for portrait mode), and other 3D scanning purposes. These studies often highlight the capabilities that a rear-facing laser system enables, implicitly contrasting with the iPhone 8 which lacks this hardware. Some research even compares the accuracy of iPhone LiDAR to professional-grade laser scanners for certain applications.
In summary, while there was discussion and speculation about the iPhone 8 potentially having a rear-facing laser system for AR and autofocus before its launch, it ultimately did not include this feature. The "laser" aspect of the iPhone 8 is limited to internal, low-power infrared lasers for functions like proximity sensing, leading to its classification as a Class 1 Laser product. Research and studies you might find would likely fall into the categories of pre-release rumors, technical specifications related to internal components and safety classifications, or studies on later iPhone models that did implement rear-facing laser-based depth sensing (LiDAR). There are no studies indicating the iPhone 8 has a visible or user-controllable laser beam.
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