Users are just getting used to the introduction of 3D painting in Procreate, but the stream of new features doesn’t seem to end. One such capability is viewing 3D models in AR using Procreate to present your creations in the real world. These work with the built-in AR-centric features of the iPad. So you don’t have to worry about downloading any app other than Procreate to view 3D models in AR. This feature works on all modern iPads, including the new M1 iPad Pro, as long as you have a supported version of Procreate. Now let’s not waste any more time and learn how to view 3D Models in AR using Procreate.
View 3D Models in AR Using Procreate (2021)
The process of viewing your Procreate 3D models in AR is fairly easy. However, 3D models are still something that many are not familiar with. So let’s start our journey by understanding what exactly 3D models are and how to download free 3D models to use in Procreate. You can proceed directly to the steps of viewing 3D objects in AR using the table below.
How to Download Free 3D Models for Procreate
Before looking at resources for downloading 3D models for use in Procreate, let’s review a brief description of 3D objects.
By definition, 3D models are defined dimensional properties in all directions. Unlike a 2D object, where only one side or angle can be accessed, 3D objects can be viewed and edited from any angle. These models are mathematical representations of objects. So just like vector images, you can easily expand and reduce their size exponentially. You’ll notice this when viewing 3D models in AR using Procreate.
- Four Trusted Sources for Downloading 3D Models
To do this, you first need a 3D model that you edit and paint in Procreate. The internet is home to several free 3D assets. But note that we are looking for these files: OBJ, UNITED STATES DOLLAR, and USDZ extensions. Even among the supported 3D files in Procreate, only OBJ files are easily available for free.
Now all you have to do is visit any of the popular free 3D asset websites listed below and OBJ extension. Then you can transfer it to your iPad using iTunes or its alternatives or download directly to your iPad. A few free and reliable sources for downloading 3D models are listed here:
- Turbo Squid (freePaid 3D models starting under $5)
- sketch (freepaid 3D models as low as $3)
- CGTrader (freePaid 3D models starting at $2)
- Free3D (freepremium 3D models start at $1)
Note that the free 3D files available on these websites cannot be used completely free of charge in all cases. A free 3D model, ‘Free for Commercial Use‘ or a ‘Royalty Free License‘, you can only use it for your personal projects. You may not sell or profit from these personal projects in any way. Fortunately, all these websites mention license details on the download page itself. So be mindful of this before downloading 3D files for your Procreate project.
What is Augmented Reality (AR)?
Augmented Reality (or AR) is an interactive media technique that lets you view real-world 3D objects. It’s the same technology you use in popular games like Pokemon Go and face filters on Instagram, Snapchat, and other social media apps.
Unlike Virtual Reality (VR), AR does not replace the world you see with a fictional one. Instead of Only puts interactive objects into the world around youand you can see them from multiple angles. It works by monitoring the environment through your camera and using artificial intelligence to understand dimensions, differences and light interaction. Then we can place any realistic 3D object that we can see and interact with in real time using our AR device.
Having said that, let’s see how to use this technology and see 3D models in AR using Procreate.
How to View 3D Models in AR Using Procreate
note: We’re testing this feature on Procreate Beta version 5.2, but you can expect it to work in future releases. Procreate 5.2 update will be available to all users in the coming weeks.
Before you begin, be sure to import your 3D model into Procreate. It should appear on your home screen. However, if you don’t know how to do that, we have a dedicated guide on how to import and export 3D models in Procreate. Then follow the steps below:
1. Select the desired 3D model from the Procreate home screen to open it. In this tutorial, we will use the Ceramic Vase Model available as a free test model for Procreate beta 5.2.
2. After making the desired edits, Tap the Actions button (key icon) next to Gallery in the top menu bar. It is located in the upper left corner of the screen.
3. Then, under the Actions menu, Tap on 3D. It is indicated by a hollow cube icon and is located next to the Share button. Next, tap on “.Appearance in AR” choice.
4. The first time you press “View in AR”, the app will ask for permission to access your Camera. When the permission popup comes up, Tap the “OK” button.
5. It will now take a few seconds for Procreate to scan your media and load the object. Once it appears, you can interact with it by moving your iPad around. You can do tap and drag to move and use the object pinching motion to resize the object you can easily turn off AR mode like this: By tapping the “X” button in the upper left corner.
There’s no option to save what you see in AR mode in Procreate, which is disappointing. So, you can learn how to view the recording on your iPhone and iPad to record real-world 3D objects. Note that 3D objects in AR work best with smooth surfaces. Also, when viewing these 3D objects, be sure to consider licensing and only take photos of free-to-use objects.
View Real-Life 3D Models Using AR in Procreate
This is how you can easily view 3D models in AR using Procreate. If that got you excited, wait until you explore your creations using the upcoming Apple AR/VR glasses. Currently, you can use this AR feature on the latest iPad mini 6, M1 iPad Pro and other compatible iPad models. As of 2021, there are several reliable alternatives to Procreate on Android, but none of them support AR imaging.
So if you have a compatible iPad, the latest Procreate 5.2 update, and your drawing is ready, there’s no time to waste. Create amazing artworks using 3D objects and don’t forget to share them with our community. If you run into any problems trying out the new 3D painting feature or other new Procreate features, leave your query in the comments section. Our team will assist you immediately.
