Augmented reality (AR) allows you to view 3D models in the real world using your mobile device's camera. There are several different ways to enter AR mode on Sketchfab.
Viewing Sketchfab models in AR
There are a few ways to view Sketchfab models in AR:
- Downloadable models can be viewed directly in AR on iOS by downloading the USDZ versions of the model.
- Premium and Enterprise customers can turn on "app-free" AR mode on any model for both iOS and Android.
How do I view public USDZ files in AR?
Go to the model page of a downloadable model.
Scroll down and tap Download 3D Model.
Tap Download next to "Augmented Reality Format (USDZ)". This opens a link to the USDZ file, which will load in Apple Quick Look.
Tap the AR icon.
Then, follow the instructions on-screen to place the model in AR. Once it's placed, you can pinch with two fingers to scale and swipe with one finger to move the model.
How do I view my own models in AR?
Pro members and above have the ability to download all their own models, even if they are not publicly available for download. This means that on iOS, all your models can be viewed in AR, but the download button is in a slightly different location.
Scroll down the model page, and tap Edit Properties.
Scroll down and tap Download next to "USDZ (Converted AR format)". Then, follow the same steps as above.