iPhone 16 Pro: There's Another Exciting Thing Other Than AI | Free 3D Scan For All

Introduction

Apple recently unveiled the iPhone 16 and 16 Pro, which will launch alongside the official release of iOS 18. One of the most significant updates includes the integration of Apple Intelligence, enhancing user experience with sophisticated AI functionalities. However, beyond AI, Apple has introduced another groundbreaking feature—the Object Capture, which offers high-quality 3D scanning capabilities.

Object Capture

The Object Capture feature allows users with iPhone and iPad Pro models equipped with LiDAR sensors to create detailed 3D scans. This version of the Object Capture in iOS 18 has been notably upgraded to include a new area mode, which scans not only objects but also broader spaces.

User Interface

Users will appreciate Apple's familiar, clean user interface, packed with intuitive details. However, it’s important to note that Object Capture is primarily available as an API for developers, meaning users must download a compatible 3D scanning app to utilize this feature. K Engine is among the first apps to incorporate this new capability, providing users with a streamlined experience post-iOS 18 rollout.

Area Mode Introduction

In the updated Object Capture, users will find both object mode and area mode. The object mode is designed to create clean 3D models by capturing an entire spherical view of an object, eliminating background noise. However, this mode requires a complete 360-degree capture, which may not always be feasible. The area mode provides added flexibility, allowing users to scan surrounding environments with ease. By walking around the targeted area, users can capture comprehensive scans, aided by a point cloud preview that functions like a mini-map.

3D Model Quality Comparison

The area mode significantly enhances the quality of produced 3D models compared to traditional scanning methods. While SC Scan is effective for rapid point cloud generation, its mesh quality is subpar. In contrast, the area mode combines photogrammetry and LiDAR technology, resulting in high-quality meshes and textures while leveraging local processing capabilities.

Processing Speed

During testing, users may notice that scanning with the area mode requires more time than traditional methods, but the processing yields a finer finished product. Users have reported that the area mode typically takes three to five times longer to process compared to the SC Scan.

Privacy and Data Management

A notable advantage of the new scanning methods is that all models remain on the user's device, eliminating privacy concerns and reducing server costs. However, if the application is deleted, the 3D models will also vanish. To address this, K Engine offers users an option to back up their models on its servers, allowing access via web browsers and enabling advanced exporting features.

Limitations

The area mode comes with a limitation: it can only generate 3D models at 25,000 polygons. This restriction applies regardless of how detailed or careful a user is during the scanning process, as the feature operates strictly within Apple’s API boundaries.

In conclusion, the iPhone 16 Pro’s Object Capture feature presents a remarkable leap in 3D scanning technology, giving users a free, intuitive tool for creating high-quality scans right from their devices.

Keywords

iPhone 16, iPhone 16 Pro, iOS 18, Apple Intelligence, Object Capture, 3D scans, LiDAR sensor, area mode, K Engine, photogrammetry, mesh quality, app development, privacy concerns, polygon limitation.

FAQ

What is the Object Capture feature on the iPhone 16 Pro?

Object Capture is a feature enabling users to create high-quality 3D scans using the LiDAR sensor on compatible iPhone and iPad models.

How does the area mode differ from the object mode?

The object mode requires a full circular capture around an object, providing clean 3D models, while the area mode allows users to scan whole environments flexibly without needing a complete 360-degree capture.

Can I use Object Capture right after upgrading to iOS 18?

Object Capture requires a compatible app, like K Engine, to access the feature after upgrading to iOS 18.

What are the limitations of scanning with Object Capture?

Currently, the area mode can only produce 3D models with a maximum of 25,000 polygons, which cannot be adjusted.

Are there any privacy concerns with using Object Capture?

One of the advantages of Object Capture is that data is processed locally on the device, minimizing privacy risks compared to cloud-based solutions.