Augment turns Max models into augmented realities
Need a new way to visualise your 3D models? Free augmented reality app Augment might be what you need.
The app, which is available for iPad, iPhone and Android devices, has been around since last year, but the developer has recently released a dedicated 3ds Max export plugin.
How it works
Users can upload models to the Augment website in OBJ, STL or Collada format (the new 3ds Max exporter automates this process and also optionally bakes in the scene lighting).
Once uploaded, you print out Augment’s tracker image (there are pocket-sized, A4 and A3 versions on the site), install the app on your tablet, then point the tablet at the tracker to see the model in 3D.
The latest update also adds a new trackerless mode, and the option to create custom trackers: the demo video suggests using a newspaper or magazine, but it looks like it would work with almost any image.
Good user feedback
The app has received good user feedback from both iOS and Android users, and currently has an average rating of 4.5 stars on the App Store and 4 on Google Play.
Don’t be put off by the fact that much of the demo material is tailored towards ecommerce: even for more general uses, this looks like an app worth experimenting with.
Augment is available now for iOS 5.0 and above and Android 2.2 and above. You will need to maintain an active internet connection to view your models.
Download the iOS app from the App Store