Introduction

Polycam is a leading 3D capture application that transforms your smartphone or tablet into a powerful scanning device. Utilizing both LiDAR technology (for compatible Apple Pro devices) and photogrammetry, Polycam allows users to create stunningly realistic 3D models of objects, rooms, and entire environments. It serves a wide range of users, from artists and designers to architects, game developers, and hobbyists looking to digitize the physical world with remarkable ease and precision.

Key Features

• LiDAR 3D Scanning: For iPhone Pro and iPad Pro models, Polycam leverages the built-in LiDAR scanner to capture accurate, real-time 3D models of spaces and objects with impressive speed and scale.
• Photogrammetry: Available on all devices, this feature allows users to take a series of photos from different angles, which Polycam then stitches together and processes into a detailed 3D model, complete with textures.
• Room Mode: A specialized LiDAR feature designed to quickly scan and generate floor plans and detailed 3D models of entire rooms, complete with measurements.
• AI Texturing: Enhances the visual quality of photogrammetry models by intelligently generating and applying realistic textures.
• Flexible Export Options: Models can be exported in a variety of popular formats, including OBJ, GLB, FBX, USDZ, STL, and more, making them compatible with most 3D software and game engines.
• On-Device Processing: Many scanning tasks, especially photogrammetry, are processed directly on your device, providing quick results without relying on cloud services for every scan.
• Web Viewer & Sharing: Easily share your 3D captures with others via a web link, allowing them to view and interact with your models in a browser.
• Basic Editing Tools: In-app tools allow for basic model manipulation, such as trimming, scaling, and adjusting lighting.

Pros

• Exceptional Ease of Use: Polycam boasts an intuitive interface that makes 3D scanning accessible to beginners, while still offering depth for advanced users.
• High-Quality Output: When used correctly, both LiDAR and photogrammetry modes can produce highly detailed and accurate 3D models.
• Versatility: The combination of LiDAR and photogrammetry covers a broad spectrum of scanning needs, from large environments to intricate objects.
• Portability: The ability to conduct professional-grade 3D scanning with a device you already carry is a significant advantage.
• Active Development: Polycam frequently releases updates, introducing new features and improvements, reflecting a commitment to enhancing the user experience.
• Wide Range of Export Formats: Ensures compatibility with virtually any 3D workflow.

Cons

• Hardware Dependency: The advanced LiDAR features are exclusive to Apple devices with a LiDAR scanner (iPhone Pro, iPad Pro), limiting full functionality for other users.
• Learning Curve for Optimal Results: While easy to start, achieving professional-grade photogrammetry results requires understanding best practices for lighting, overlap, and subject matter.
• Resource Intensive: Photogrammetry processing can be demanding on device resources, potentially leading to longer processing times or performance issues on older phones.
• Subscription Model: Access to unlimited high-resolution scans and all features requires a paid subscription, which might be a barrier for casual users.
• Lighting Sensitivity: Photogrammetry quality is highly dependent on consistent and good lighting conditions.

Pricing

Polycam operates on a freemium model. A free version is available, which typically allows users to perform a limited number of scans or export models at a lower resolution, providing a good way to test the app’s capabilities.

For full access to all features, including unlimited high-resolution scans, all export formats, and advanced processing capabilities, Polycam offers a “Polycam Pro” subscription. Pricing can vary slightly by region and platform, but generally, it is offered:

• Monthly Subscription: Approximately $14.99 per month.
• Annual Subscription: Approximately $79.99 per year (offering a significant saving compared to monthly payments).

It’s always recommended to check the Polycam app store listing for the most current and accurate pricing information.