What is Polycam
Discover Polycam's AI-driven 3D scanning platform for professionals in architecture, engineering, and construction. Capture spaces with LiDAR, generate AI models from single images[7], create floor plans[4][6], and collaborate in real-time across iOS/Android devices[7][9].
Overview of Polycam
- Cross-Platform 3D Scanning Solution: Polycam provides enterprise-grade 3D capture tools compatible with iOS, Android, drones, LiDAR scanners, and photogrammetry systems through a unified platform.
- Spatial Career Ecosystem: Supports over 100 professional workflows including architecture, forensic analysis, natural sciences, and safety engineering with specialized tools for physical space documentation.
- Global Adoption Metrics: Processes 9.6M annual 3D models across 95% of countries, demonstrating widespread industry adoption of its scanning technologies.
Use Cases for Polycam
- Architectural Documentation: Generates millimeter-accurate floor plans from LiDAR scans with automatic CAD format conversion for renovation projects.
- Forensic Reconstruction: Creates evidentiary 3D models of accident scenes using photogrammetry captures from standard smartphones.
- Industrial Safety Planning: Develops interactive 360° hazard simulations through AI-generated environmental fills for training scenarios.
Key Features of Polycam
- AI-Powered Model Generation: Creates detailed 3D models from single images in 15 seconds using proprietary computer vision algorithms.
- Multi-Sensor Integration: Combines LiDAR room scanning (4.1M annual scans) with photogrammetry object capture (3.7M scans) through device-agnostic workflows.
- Professional Output Formats: Exports to industry-standard files (OBJ, FBX, DAE) with direct CAD/BIM software compatibility for architectural blueprints and engineering schematics.
Final Recommendation for Polycam
- Essential for AEC Professionals: Architects and engineers benefit from integrated scanning-to-CAD workflows reducing site measurement time by 60-80%.
- Recommended for Field Researchers: Combines portable capture capabilities with scientific-grade measurement tools for remote data collection.
- Cost-Effective Enterprise Solution: Pro Plan ($149.99/year) offers unlimited high-resolution exports ideal for construction firms and survey teams.
Frequently Asked Questions about Polycam
What is Polycam?▾
Polycam is a mobile app for creating 3D models and scans of real-world objects and spaces using LiDAR or photo-based photogrammetry, usable for AR, 3D printing, design, and documentation.
Which devices and platforms does Polycam support?▾
Polycam supports LiDAR-equipped iPhones and iPads for depth scans and runs photogrammetry on most smartphones and tablets; exported files can be used on Mac, Windows, and in common 3D tools and game engines.
How do I capture a good scan with Polycam?▾
Choose LiDAR or Photo mode, move steadily around the subject keeping consistent distance and overlap, avoid fast motion, and ensure even lighting and visible surface texture for best results.
What capture modes does Polycam offer?▾
Polycam generally offers LiDAR (depth-based) scanning for compatible devices and photo-based photogrammetry for devices without LiDAR, letting you pick the method that fits your hardware and scene.
Which export formats are available?▾
Common export options include OBJ, STL, GLB/GLTF, PLY and USDZ with support for texture maps; specific formats or high-resolution exports may require a paid plan.
How accurate are Polycam scans?▾
LiDAR scans typically achieve near-centimeter-level spatial accuracy for many use cases, while photogrammetry accuracy varies based on photo quality, overlap, distance, and surface detail.
Can I edit or clean up scans inside the app?▾
Yes — Polycam provides in-app tools like cropping, decimation, remeshing/smoothing, hole filling and basic measurements to refine scans before exporting.
Is Polycam free to use or is there a cost?▾
Polycam offers a free tier with basic scanning and exports, while advanced features, higher-resolution exports, and cloud storage are available through paid subscriptions or in-app purchases.
How do I share or use my scans with other apps and services?▾
You can export scans in common 3D formats to local storage, email, cloud services, or directly import them into 3D software, game engines, AR viewers, or 3D printing workflows.
Where are my scans stored and how is my data handled?▾
Scans are saved locally on your device by default, with optional cloud backup/sync if you enable it; review the app’s privacy settings and terms for details on storage, sharing and deletion.
User Reviews and Comments about Polycam
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