What’s Inside
Epic Games’ RealityScan is a mobile-first photogrammetry app that lets anyone convert ordinary phone photos into detailed 3D models. Built on tech from Capturing Reality and integrated with Quixel tools, RealityScan brings professional-grade scanning tools to handheld devices — no special hardware required.
What RealityScan does
At a basic level, RealityScan guides you through capturing an object from multiple angles and stitches those images into a textured 3D mesh using photogrammetry. The app provides real-time visual feedback (a point-cloud preview) that shows where you need better coverage, auto-capture options to simplify the shoot, and AR scaling so the generated model appears at the correct size in the real world. Once processed, you can export models for editing or upload them directly to marketplaces like Sketchfab.
Where to get it and platform support
RealityScan Mobile is available for iOS and Android as a free download; official pages and app stores host the installer and the latest release notes. The desktop/advanced RealityScan tools are also available via Epic’s RealityScan downloads for creators who need deeper control and licensing options. Check the App Store or Google Play listing to download or confirm device compatibility.
Tips for better scans
- Coverage matters: Move around the object and capture consistent overlap between frames — the point-cloud preview shows gaps.
- Stable lighting & settings: Avoid harsh shadows; use the app’s camera controls (focus, shutter, ISO) for consistent exposures.
- Use auto-capture for tricky shots: RealityScan’s auto-capture can reduce motion blur and missed angles.
Following these basics produces cleaner meshes and better textures, especially for small objects and detailed surfaces.
Who benefits most
RealityScan is useful for game developers, AR/VR creators, 3D printing hobbyists, and designers who need quick, high-quality scans for prototype assets. It also serves educators and students exploring 3D modeling without expensive scanners. While results are impressive, complex scenes and reflective or transparent surfaces still pose challenges for photogrammetry workflows.
Export & workflow integration
The app supports exporting models to standard formats and direct uploads to platforms like Sketchfab, making it simple to share assets or import them into Unreal Engine, Blender, or other 3D tools in your pipeline. For studio workflows, Epic’s RealityScan desktop tools and the broader Quixel ecosystem offer additional cleanup and optimization options.
