Best 3D Scanning Apps for Android: Convert Real Objects into Digital Models
Have you ever wanted to turn real objects into digital models for use in your 3D designs? Finding the right photogrammetry tools can be difficult. Fortunately, there are a few 3D scanning apps for Android that make it easy to capture object data.
Here, we’ll show you the best apps out there —  each with their own strengths and use cases —  that will make it easier than ever to create your next great product design.
1. KIRI Engine
KIRI Engine is a popular 3D scanning application for Android devices that allows you to create 3D models by reconstructing a single image or a group of images or videos. It is based on the concept of photogrammetry — the process of using photography to record the shape and geometry of a target object.
To get started, you’ll need to take at least twenty high-quality photos, from various angles. Next, choose the type of texture quality — High, Medium, or Low, and other parameters such as camera and exposure settings according to your choice, and click Upload. The application automatically detects key points from the images and creates a 3D model from them.
The AI ​​Masking feature allows you to filter out unwanted details from photos for greater detail and accuracy. You’ll be able to customize the model, choose textures (even in 4K), and more. You can also export the model in different formats like OBJ, STL, and PLY. To make your creations visible across many platforms, scroll the bar in order to see it.
You can use the app to scan objects and scenes with intricate geometry and detail across a wide range of applications such as architecture, 3D printing, virtual and augmented reality, and games. The more photos you take, at different angles and all around the object, the better the app can determine the shape of the object. This applies to all applications in the list.
KIRI Engine is easy to use even for beginners. The premium version of the app gives access to unlimited exports, advanced camera settings, gallery uploads, and more.
Download: KIRI Engine
2. WIDAR
With the WIDAR 3D app, you can take beautiful photos and turn them into high-quality 3D models. You can export your 3D models for use in VR, AR, video games, architecture, and even 3D printing!
Photo Scan mode allows you to scan in 3D on all devices. You can take pictures from different angles of the object being scanned, which increases accuracy and vividness while also saving time when creating a model.
To get started, you’ll need to grant the necessary permissions to the camera and notifications. Next, you will need to select the categories and sign up using your email or Google account.
Upon registration, you will be redirected to the community page where you can find forms created and uploaded by other users. You can use pre-existing objects as inspiration for your next creation or press the camera button to create one as per your preference.
You can scan and edit 3D models on your phone, then export them in various formats for use across platforms like Blender and Maya. You can share it on social media, or use it in object data formats like OBJ and FBX.
3. Polycam 3D Scanner
With Polycam, you can turn your phone into a 3D scanner, so you can capture iconic objects in all their glory. Polycam works with both Apple and Android devices. However, some Apple devices come with a LiDAR sensor that can augment the photometric experience for you. Take a look at our list of 3D scanner apps for iPhone to see what else is available.
If you have an Android device, you can still use Photo Style to take a photo with your camera and upload it to the cloud later. The app is easy to use — Just point the scanner at an object, take at least twenty photos from different angles, and wait for the scan to complete.
Once the image is processed, you will be able to view the scan on your phone screen and share it via email or cloud storage. Click on the image and use a variety of settings in the bottom menu to analyze the 3D model. You can make a video with Orbit and Custom modes as well as see where you can enter random keyframes.
You’ll have the option to export it as a GLTF file, share it with the community via the Explore feed, or share a link to your creations.
You can upgrade to the premium version if you want even more detail and resolution — It allows you to take more photos via Photo Mode, and it integrates with the Polycam web app for direct download. You can also export your models in a variety of formats with the premium version.
4. MagiScan
Free 3D scanning is by no means easy. You may notice that the grid area has gaps, and that the output in general does not live up to your expectations. MagiScan 3D Scanner tries to simplify the process by offering a simple and elegant technique for creating a high-quality 3D model of the object.
Developed by experts, MagiScan allows you to capture high-quality 3D models that are optimized for AR and can be used in various ways. You just need to point, rotate and capture the object from all sides to get clear pictures and perspective.
5. ARLOOPA
ARLOOPA 3D Scanner is another application that allows you to create, analyze, measure and edit 3D models of your environment.
To get started, sign up for an account and go to the Settings menu. Click Create AR, and you will be redirected to the web app where you can select Create a new experience. You’ll be able to choose between tagless scans, tag-based scans, or even location-based scans, and more options will appear as you click through the interface.
The best part is that you can find detailed tutorials every step of the way to guide you around creating 3D models, like this one to create a place-based model:
Once you’re done, you can scale and publish your model if you want. If you want to create 3D models without scanner apps.
Build 3D models of your favorite objects
These are our top picks for Android 3D scanning apps that will give you a wide range of creativity and flexibility in creating your models from photos, scans, and drawings.
While these tools may not be able to fully replicate the 3D experience in real life, they do come with different capabilities — they’re incredibly useful when you’re on the go, for example. Pick up one of these scanning apps, use it, and you will find yourself creating something completely new from your imagination.