APDS-9960 Overview
The APDS-9960 is a versatile integrated sensor designed for advanced gesture detection, ambient light sensing, RGB color detection, and proximity measurement, making it ideal for next-generation human-machine interfaces. Its compact footprint and low power consumption enable seamless integration into portable and embedded devices. The sensor supports multiple detection modes with high accuracy and reliability, enhancing user experience in applications such as smartphones, tablets, and IoT devices. For detailed technical insights and sourcing, refer to IC Manufacturer.
APDS-9960 Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Operating Voltage | 2.4 V to 3.6 V |
| Proximity Detection Range | Up to 10 cm |
| Gesture Detection | 4-directional (Up, Down, Left, Right) |
| Ambient Light Sensing Range | 0 to 10000 lux |
| Color Sensing | RGB and Clear light sensing |
| Communication Interface | I2C (Standard mode, up to 400 kHz) |
| Power Consumption | Typical 0.4 mA in active mode |
| Package Type | 6-pin LGA (3.95 mm ?? 2.4 mm ?? 1.1 mm) |
APDS-9960 Key Features
- Integrated Gesture Sensing: Enables detection of four directional hand gestures, improving touchless control with intuitive user interface experiences.
- Multi-Function Sensing: Combines ambient light, RGB color, and proximity detection into a single module, simplifying design and reducing component count.
- Low Power Consumption: Optimized for portable devices, it ensures extended battery life without sacrificing sensor performance or responsiveness.
- Compact and Easy Integration: Small form factor and I2C interface allow straightforward integration into embedded systems and mobile platforms.
APDS-9960 Advantages vs Typical Alternatives
This sensor excels in delivering high sensitivity and accuracy across multiple sensing modes within a single compact package. Its low power operation and integrated gesture recognition differentiate it from typical single-function sensors, enabling more reliable and sophisticated user interactions with fewer external components. The digital interface simplifies system integration, reducing development time and costs.
🔥 Best-Selling Products

Texas Instruments BQ24075 Linear Battery Charger IC – 5mm x 4mm QFN Package

Texas Instruments INA219 Current Sensor Module – SOIC Package, Precision Monitoring

Texas Instruments LM4041 Precision Voltage Reference – SOT-23 Package

Texas Instruments OPA2134 Audio Op Amp – Dual, High-Performance, SOIC-8 Package
Typical Applications
- Smartphones and Tablets: Enhances user experience through proximity detection for screen activation and gesture-based controls, while optimizing display brightness via ambient light sensing.
- Wearable Devices: Provides compact, low-power sensing capabilities suitable for gesture recognition and environmental light measurement in fitness trackers and smartwatches.
- Home Automation: Enables touchless control interfaces and ambient lighting adjustments in smart home devices.
- Consumer Electronics: Improves interaction in devices such as remote controls and gaming consoles by integrating gesture and proximity sensing.
APDS-9960 Brand Info
The APDS-9960 is offered by a leading semiconductor manufacturer specializing in optical sensor solutions. This product is engineered for high performance in gesture, color, and proximity sensing applications. The brand is recognized for delivering reliable, integrated sensor modules that support innovation in consumer and industrial electronics, enabling intuitive human-device interaction and energy-efficient operation.
FAQ
What protocols are supported for communication with the sensor?
The sensor communicates via an I2C interface, supporting standard mode operation up to 400 kHz. This enables easy integration with most microcontrollers and embedded processors commonly used in industrial and consumer devices.
🌟 Featured Products

“Buy MAX9312ECJ+ Precision Voltage Comparator in DIP Package for Reliable Performance”

QCC-711-1-MQFN48C-TR-03-1 Bluetooth Audio SoC with MQFN48C Package

0339-671-TLM-E Model – High-Performance TLM-E Package for Enhanced Functionality

1-1415898-4 Connector Housing, Electrical Wire-to-Board, Receptacle, Packaged
How does the sensor detect gestures and what directions are supported?
It detects four basic directional gestures: up, down, left, and right. This is achieved through an internal IR LED and photodiode array that track hand movements, enabling intuitive touchless user input without physical contact.
What is the typical power consumption in active sensing mode?
In active mode, the device consumes approximately 0.4 mA, allowing for efficient operation in battery-powered applications. Power management features help to further reduce consumption during idle periods.
📩 Contact Us
Can the sensor measure ambient light and color simultaneously?
Yes, it supports ambient light sensing and RGB color detection concurrently. This enables adaptive display brightness and color calibration in devices, improving visual comfort and accuracy.
What is the maximum detection range for proximity sensing?
The proximity sensing capability extends up to around 10 centimeters, which is sufficient for common applications such as screen wake-up and object detection in handheld and wearable devices.






