Volvo’s flagship electric SUV features cutting-edge lidar technology that may wreak havoc on your smartphone camera.
In a striking example of how powerful new automotive technology can clash with everyday devices, a viral video has emerged showing the Volvo EX90’s roof-mounted lidar sensor damaging a smartphone camera. The incident has alarmed car enthusiasts and tech users alike, drawing attention to the Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) technology embedded in the luxury electric SUV.
What Happened?
In the now widely circulated clip, a smartphone user captures close-up footage of the Volvo EX90’s lidar system. As the camera zooms in on the sensor, viewers can see bright trails forming on the screen. These trails are not just artifacts—they’re permanent damage to the phone’s CMOS sensor caused by the pulsing laser of the lidar system.
The problem? Lidar (Light Detection and Ranging) technology uses laser pulses to calculate distances between the car and nearby objects, enabling features like autonomous braking, lane-keeping, and pedestrian detection. But when a high-intensity laser pulse hits a smartphone camera sensor at close range, it can burn out individual pixels, leading to irreversible damage.
Why Enthusiasts Should Be Cautious
Photographing or filming luxury vehicles has become a common pastime, especially when it comes to new electric models like the Volvo EX90. But this new incident has raised an unexpected red flag—capturing a close-up of a lidar sensor could result in a costly repair bill for your smartphone. The issue stems from the highly concentrated and fast-pulsing laser beam that interacts poorly with modern camera sensors.
Is Lidar Dangerous for Humans?
Understandably, some viewers have raised concerns about the potential harm these systems might pose to the human body. Thankfully, lidar systems like the one used in the Volvo EX90 adhere to Class One safety standards, according to the American National Standards Institute (ANSI). This means they are completely safe for human eyes—even during extended exposure.
While that’s a relief for passengers, drivers, and pedestrians, it doesn’t offer the same reassurance for smartphone users. Your eyes are safe, but your phone’s camera isn’t.
Volvo EX90: Indian Launch Timeline
The Volvo EX90, which began production in 2024, has already seen deliveries roll out in select global markets. The Swedish automaker is expected to introduce the EX90 in India in 2025marking a significant step forward in the luxury EV segment domestically.
With cutting-edge features like lidar-powered ADAS, a sleek Scandinavian design, and fully electric drivetrain, the EX90 will rival premium electric SUVs from brands like Tesla, BMW, and Mercedes-Benz.
Bottom Line
Volvo’s integration of lidar in the EX90 represents a leap forward in automotive safety and autonomy. However, this same technology can unintentionally clash with consumer electronics. While your eyes are in the clear, it’s best to keep your smartphone camera pointed away from the lidar beam—unless you’re ready to risk frying your camera sensor.
Bhupendra singh chundawat is a seasoned technology journalist with over 22 years of experience in the media industry. He specializes in covering the global technology landscape, with a deep focus on manufacturing trends and the geopolitical impact on tech companies. Currently serving as the Editor at Udaipur kiranhis insights are shaped by decades of hands-on reporting and editorial leadership in the fast-evolving world of technology.
