Question about the compass

[kenbrinkman]

Would the magnetometer display an accurate heading if the iPhone was not parallel to the ground? Say, if it's mounted on the dashboard of a car, perpendicular to the ground and direction of travel, would it still work?

What do you guys think?

 

[Resist]

Would it work if the iPhone was upside down? Think about it for a minute.

For it to work correctly it has to have a reference point, which is being parallel to the ground or horizontal, just like a real compass needs to be.

 

[dancavallaro]

The compass in the 3GS works whether it's parallel or perpendicular to the ground. Orientation doesn't seem to matter.

 

[PNutts]

Magnetic compasses are influenced when inside a car. You should recalibrate in the car to get the best reading.