If you’re looking for the best LiDAR apps to get on your iPhone and iPad, then you’ve come to the right place.
We’ve rounded up the top 6 LiDAR apps that are currently available in the App Store. And we’ll tell you what makes each one special so that you can pick the best one for your needs.
What exactly is LiDAR?
LiDAR is an acronym for Light Detection And Ranging. It is a laser-based scanning and ranging system that can be used to measure objects in three-dimensional space. LiDAR uses time-of-flight to determine the length, breadth, height and depth of an object. The scanner “sprays” infrared light waves at the object to be measured and then records the time it takes for the waves to reflect back off the object. This information is then used to create a 3D image of the object.
LiDAR can be used for a variety of purposes, including overlaying pictures, placing 3D objects, recording 3D information, and taking relatively accurate measurements of real-world objects using your phone.
Many 3D scanning applications employ LiDAR to build space designs and furniture layouts. Some LiDAR sensors are ranged, which means they can only accurately measure objects within a certain distance range (usually up to 5 meters).
6 Best LiDAR apps for iPhones and iPads
Here are some excellent LiDAR applications for your Apple devices that may be used for a variety of purposes:
1. 3D Scanner
3D Scanner is one of the best LiDAR apps for a number of reasons. First, in the past you needed 3D tools to digitize real-world items and people used Blender and AutoCAD. However, with this app you can simply use your iPhone or iPad camera to scan an object and create a 3D rendering of it – no fancy equipment necessary.
Additionally, the app has distance measuring capabilities so you can export your file as an OBJ or STL to edit in other applications like Blender. Finally, if you want to reconstruct people or objects as gaming assets or D&D characters, this app is perfect for that purpose.
2. Canvas for Homeowners
There are many reasons why Canvas for Homeowners is one of the best LiDAR apps. For starters, it allows users to quickly and easily scan and build their house.
Additionally, users can easily design, rearrange, measure, and observe the space from different angles. This is extremely helpful for those who are looking to renovate their home or simply want to get a better understanding of their space.
The app also exports scans to CAD for additional editing, which is extremely helpful for professionals who want to create a new house plan quickly and easily. Finally, while the app does have a subscription model, it is still very affordable compared to hiring a professional to help with your home’s design.
3. Canvas: LiDAR 3D
When it comes to apps that allow you to take measurements of a space using LiDAR, Canvas: LiDAR 3D Measurements is one of the best. Not only is it accurate, but it also allows you to capture and show full rooms with ease.
Once you’ve launched the app, simply move your iPhone or iPad over the mesh in order to cover it. The app will then build a 3D environment of the space which you can then explore by strolling around the room or viewing cutaway views. This is an incredibly helpful tool for amateur or inexperienced redecorators who want to develop digital room layouts before execution.
While the basic version of Canvas: LiDAR 3D Measurements is free, there are pro-level features that are paywalled. These pro capabilities enable you produce CAD room images for interior designers or architects.
4. IKEA Place
If you’re looking for some of the best LiDAR applications out there for redesigning your home furnishings, then IKEA Place is definitely one that you should check out.
This awesome iPhone app allows you to place virtual 3D furniture in your environment so that you can get a better idea of how it would look and fit in your space. You can also buy furniture without having to visit an IKEA store, which is really convenient.
Plus, the app lets you browse through IKEA’s inventory of desks, tables, chairs, couches, lamps, and bookshelves so that you can find exactly what you’re looking for.
5. Measure
We’ve all been there before. We need to measure something, but we don’t have a tape measure or ruler handy. That’s where Measure comes in – it’s one of the best LiDAR apps for measuring, period.
With Measure, you can take accurate measurements of distance, dimensions, and straightness using just your iPhone. Position the dot and set a starting point to use Measure – create an endpoint by moving your camera along the side you wish to measure. The app does the rest, accurately measuring and displaying the distance between points.
But that’s not all – Measure can also be used to manually measure rooms and other objects. This makes it incredibly useful for interior design, architecture, and even measuring aircraft luggage (no more guessing whether that bag will fit in the overhead compartment!).
In short, if you need to take measurements anywhere, anytime, Measure is the app for you.
6. Polycam
3D modeling is a discipline that generally requires both creativity and technical skills. Modelers often use computer-aided design (CAD) software to create three-dimensional (3D) models of objects. However, with the advent of powerful iPhone LiDAR apps like Polycam, it’s now possible for anyone to create high-quality 3D models without any prior experience.
Polycam is an excellent iPhone LiDAR app that allows users to capture real-world objects and turn them into 3D models quickly and easily. To use Polycam, simply point your camera at the object you want to scan, push the shutter button, and then sweep the camera around the object until it’s completely captured. Once the scan is complete, you can edit the resulting picture in a number of ways, including cropping objects, measuring distances, and even sharing the data with others.
What makes Polycam particularly useful for modelers is its simplicity and power. Despite its ease of use, Polycam produces high-quality 3D models that can be used as a foundation for further creative work. Whether you’re looking to create D&D characters or build detailed environments for video games or movies, Polycam is an excellent tool for getting started.
Conclusion
The bottom line is that LiDAR technology is a lot of fun, and it can be used for so many different purposes. The apps we’ve discussed here are just a few of the best ones available for your iPhone and iPad. If you think that we have missed any then feel free to mention it in the comments section.
