Description
About Magnetometer Test
Introduction
This page tries to read a magnetometer if the browser exposes one. Most browsers do not. Seeing “unsupported” is normal and trustworthy — DeviceHub will not invent live µT values.
What this tool does
It attempts to start a magnetometer sensor and shows values only when the engine provides them.
When to use it
Use it to learn whether this browser exposes the sensor API. Prefer Compass Test for a more common orientation-based heading estimate.
How it works
Supported: rare Chromium/Android configurations. Unsupported: Safari, Firefox, desktops, and most stock mobile browsers. Why: magnetometer web access is experimental and restricted. Permissions: sensor permission when prompted. Hardware: a phone with a magnetometer plus a supporting browser. Expected: usually unsupported; occasional live field readings on niche setups.
Step-by-step instructions
- Open the page on a phone.
- Start the probe and respond to any permission prompt.
- Treat unsupported as a valid outcome.
Common problems
Unsupported everywhere you try is common. That reflects browser support, not a broken phone magnetometer for native apps.
Privacy explanation
Sensor samples stay local when present. Nothing is uploaded.