# Sonar Utility

> Measures distance and creates 360° sonic images using sound waves. (iPhone/iPad app by Mark Carlotto.)

- Source: https://appshunter.io/ios/app/sonar-utility/id499660346 (this page in markdown: same URL + `.md`)
- Developer: [Mark Carlotto](https://appshunter.io/developer/293347135)
- Category: Weather, Utilities
- Price: $1.99
- Rating: 2.33/5 from 3 App Store ratings · 7 written reviews indexed
- Age rating: 4+
- Requires: iOS 11.1 · 1 MB
- Languages: English
- Released: 2012-02-26
- Data updated: 2026-06-10
- Monetization: paid
- User reviews in markdown: https://appshunter.io/ios/app/sonar-utility/id499660346/reviews.md

## What is Sonar Utility?

Sonar Utility uses sound to measure distance. But it is so much more than a ruler. It is the first iPhone app for generating 360° sonic images that show surfaces like walls, obstructions, openings (e.g., doorways), and other features. Use it to "see" in the dark. Sonar Utility is also a thermometer that estimates the ambient temperature using the physics of sound. 

Note: For best results this app should be used in quiet environments. Works best with older iPhones (e.g., iPhone 4s).

Specifications

Waveform: 5000-20000 Hz noise modulated "chirp"
Sampling Frequency: 44100 Hz (0.3 inch accuracy at 72°F)
Range: 9 inches to 30 feet (0.23 - 9.14 meters)

Go to our web site for more information.

## Key features

- Distance measurement using sound
- 360° sonic imaging
- Detects surfaces, obstructions, and openings
- Thermometer function
- Works in low-light conditions

## Recent user reviews (7 of 7)

All indexed reviews: https://appshunter.io/ios/app/sonar-utility/id499660346/reviews.md

### 1/5 — Doesn’t work

*2020-07-07, version 1.5*

Mark
I would suggest that you either take this app down or make it free. It does not seem to work at all.

### 1/5 — Doesn't work

*2017-04-25, version 1.4*

It can't tell the difference between one foot or ten.

### 5/5 — As advertised

*2015-12-13, version 1.3*

Does what it says.  Good to show the kids about sonar, echo ranging.

### 5/5 — Sonar utility re-view

*2013-02-05, version 1.1*

Hockey-Cow!!! This app almost make me crap in my pants. Don't try at night especially when alone. You might find a some sort of freaking creature watching you. It does work like it say, use sonar and temperature sensing to scan around just like radar. It's really nice app, it show in dark what's hidden if its alive or not and shape. I know many people are not believe in superstitious story but when I scan my room around I did found something float warm in air about 5 feet in diameter and 3 feet away. And I was alone in the room. Any suggestions? This is freak me out.

### 1/5 — No goog

*2012-11-08, version 1.1*

This app is a waste. I want a refund. Tried irig with speaker and still  no success......

### 4/5 — Works great on iPhone 4s

*2012-06-05, version 1.1*

In preliminary experiments, it's giving accurate measurements.  But the clicking gets kind of annoying...

### 1/5 — Does not work.

*2012-03-07, version 1.0*

Should be considered for entertainment purposes only.  Will not actually work, even after patiently following all instructions in a perfect environment.

## Frequently asked questions about Sonar Utility

### What is the accuracy of Sonar Utility?

Sonar Utility offers 0.3-inch accuracy at 72°F, utilizing a 44100 Hz sampling frequency. The effective range for measurements is from 9 inches to 30 feet.

### Does Sonar Utility work on all iPhones?

Sonar Utility is supported on iPhone, iPad, and iPod. However, it works best with older iPhones, such as the iPhone 4s, for optimal results.

### How does Sonar Utility measure temperature?

Sonar Utility estimates the ambient temperature by leveraging the physics of sound. This feature provides an additional utility beyond its primary distance measurement capabilities.

### What is the price of Sonar Utility?

Sonar Utility is a paid application, available for $1.99. There are no in-app purchases or subscription fees associated with its use.

### How often is Sonar Utility updated?

Sonar Utility was last updated on April 25, 2020, with version 1.5. Information on its update frequency beyond this is not provided.

### What are the limitations of Sonar Utility?

For best results, Sonar Utility should be used in quiet environments. Its functionality is optimized for older iPhone models, and it is rated for ages 4 and up.

### What kind of sonic images does Sonar Utility generate?

Sonar Utility generates 360° sonic images that can depict surfaces like walls, obstructions, and openings such as doorways. This allows users to "see" their surroundings in the dark.

### What is the user sentiment for Sonar Utility?

Based on the provided data, Sonar Utility has a rating of 2.3 stars from 3 ratings, indicating a generally mixed to negative user sentiment.

## Version history (last 1 release)

### 1.5 — 2020-04-25

Updated for new iOS versions.

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## More apps by Mark Carlotto

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- [EZ 3-D Photo](https://appshunter.io/ios/app/ez-3-d-photo/id401437046)
- [3-D Movie Camera](https://appshunter.io/ios/app/3-d-movie-camera/id410331993)

All apps by Mark Carlotto: https://appshunter.io/developer/293347135

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*Data collected daily from the US App Store and indexed by [AppsHunter](https://appshunter.io/). User reviews are verbatim App Store reviews. Ratings, prices and chart positions refresh continuously; this snapshot is from 2026-06-10.*