Setup and Onboarding

Any iPhone running iOS 26 or later (iPhone 11 and SE 2nd generation onward). Every model surveys: Cave Lines, stations, Stow Mode, photos, video, Hike Lines and export. iPhones with LiDAR (Pro and Pro Max, from iPhone 12 Pro) add 3D scans, LiDAR photos and LiDAR video. See which features your phone has on the Devices page.

Phones without LiDAR can still measure LiDAR photos and videos a teammate shares.

Read and accept the Privacy Policy and Terms of Service (you accept again whenever either changes). Then, if you like, pick your Affiliated Organization (grotto, conservancy or club) from the list, or type it if it isn't there; it is optional. When you finish onboarding, Membership opens: start your 14-day free trial there through Apple, or tap Cancel to look around first (view only until you start it). Without a plan you can still view, export and delete everything; a plan keeps you recording and editing. Name, email, NSS number, height and weight go in Profile settings; they stay on your phone.

SpeleoMap asks for Camera, Microphone, Motion and Fitness, Health and Location. It asks for Bluetooth only if you turn on a laser meter, sensor or thermal camera, and Photos only if you save to the Photos app. Each one is separate, so turning one off never breaks the others. You can change them any time in the Settings app, Apps, SpeleoMap: see 1.5.1 Permissions.

No cell service or Wi-Fi needed, ever. Your survey lives on your phone and only leaves it when you export or share it. Next, make your first project.

SpeleoMap helps surveyors; it does not replace them, and it is not a navigation device. Watch your battery, keep backups, and cave safe.