MEMS barometers

The Galaxy Nexus has a built-in barometer

Microelectromechanical systems (or MEMS) barometers are extremely small devices between 1 and
100 micrometres in size (0.001 to 0.1 mm). They are created via photolithography or photochemical
machining. Typical applications include miniaturized weather stations, electronic barometers and
altimeters.[22]
A barometer can also be found in smartphones such as the Samsung Galaxy Nexus,[23] Samsung
Galaxy S3-S6, Motorola Xoom, Apple iPhone 6 and newer iPhones, and Timex Expedition
WS4 smartwatch, based on MEMS and piezoresistive pressure-sensing technologies.[24][25] Inclusion
of barometers on smartphones was originally intended to provide a faster GPS lock.[26] However, third
party researchers were unable to confirm additional GPS accuracy or lock speed due to barometric
readings. The researchers suggest that the inclusion of barometers in smartphones may provide a
solution for determining a user's elevation, but also suggest that several pitfalls must first be
overcome.[27]

More unusual barometers

Timex Expedition WS4 in Barometric chart mode with weather forecast function

There are many other more unusual types of barometer. From variations on the storm barometer,
such as the Collins Patent Table Barometer, to more traditional-looking designs such as Hooke's
Otheometer and the Ross Sympiesometer. Some, such as the Shark Oil barometer,[28] work only in a
certain temperature range, achieved in warmer climates.