iRuler app review: does using your device really measure up

Introduction

iRuler is the app that allows you to measure things using your iPhone. I'm not sure whose idea it was to develop iRuler but they may want to move it from the Utilities category to the Useless category.

There's Got To Be A Better Way

I'm sincerely baffled as to what type of user the iRuler app is geared towards. The whole idea surrounding it just really doesn't make sense. Why would anyone want to measure something with their phone? The whole concept reminds me of bad Ktel commercials from the '70s, selling you tools no one would ever need but because it's late at night you're drowsy and very impressionable.

The free version comes with an eight inch (21 cm) ruler. You can upgrade to the Pro Version for $1.99, and buy additional add-ons ranging from 99 cents to $1.99 per upgrade. The Pro Version extends your ruler length to three feet or one meter depending on your needs.

To operate iRuler simply place your finger on the screen then slide your phone along the surface, this will cause the ruler onscreen to move. Once you have reached the end of the object you look to see where the edge lines up to the number of the ruler. That's it, you've now measured something.

Accuracy In Measurement Is For Suckers

One look at iRuler and you will quickly realize this app is in no way accurate at all. To my understanding of why you would measure anything, accuracy is essential. Couple the shoddy interface with the price of the Pro Upgrade and the additional add-on packs and you could just go to a dollar store and buy both a ruler and a tape measure for much less.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• You can measure things with your iPhone if you wanted to
• Graphics of the ruler easy to read

Cons

• The upgrade price to make this app useful is expensive
• The interface works but is frightfully inaccurate
• It makes more sense to purchase a ruler or tape measure than use iRuler

Final Thoughts

The iRuler app is just another example of apps that serve no purpose, and are only designed because there are certain users out there who believe our iDevices can do anything. Well sometimes they can't, and if you are thinking about trying iRuler, just don't. Instead, just buy a ruler and tape measure; you'll thank me later.