New Artec Studio Lite: Turn Your Smartphone Into a Pro-Grade 3D Scanner
Not ready to invest in a 3D scanner but want pro-level digital twins and reverse engineering? Artec says it has the solution.
Luxembourg-based scanning specialist Artec 3D recently released Artec Studio Lite, a version of its popular software designed to bring professional-grade 3D capture tools to a broader audience without the need for Artec dedicated scanning hardware.
All3DP got a tour of the new “Lite” version at its debut at the Formnext Expo where it was positioned as a more feature-rich alternative to the software that comes with low- to mid-range priced 3D scanners. Artec doesn’t plan on releasing a consumer-grade 3D scanner, but by removing the requirement for Artec’s proprietary scanners in order to use Artec Studio software, the company is positioning this Lite version for makers, small businesses, educators, and professionals in e-commerce and CGI who can use their own smart phone for image capture.
You can create realistic 3D models from any photo or video input, plus modify, enhance, and measure with a range of tools.
A business subscription is $84 a month and an “individual” plan is $48, but limited to “personal, non-profit projects.”
Bridging the Gap for Makers and Educators
While the full Artec Studio Pro is a staple in industries like manufacturing and healthcare for its comprehensive scanning and reverse engineering toolsets, Artec Studio Lite is aimed at this different demographic.
According to Artec 3D, the software allows users to generate “feature-rich 3D models” using data captured from standard cameras, smartphones, drones, or even microscopes.
“With Artec Studio Lite we’re taking this technology even further and making it accessible to a wider audience,” says Art Yukhin, president and CEO of Artec 3D. “Whether for science, education, heritage preservation, forensics, CGI, or e-commerce, all you need is a camera… to create ultra-realistic 3D models.”
The ideal consume may be the Artec Studio user who just wants the flexibility of using their smartphone for on-the-fly reality capture.
AI-Powered Photogrammetry Features
The core of Artec Studio Lite is its AI-powered photogrammetry, which Artec claims can reconstruct fine details and achieve high geometric accuracy that often surpasses low-cost scanners and competing photogrammetry solutions. Artec is entering a crowded field. And at a subscription price of $48 per month, consumers will likely opt for free solutions, such as RealityCapture or Meshroom (AliceVision).
But for anyone who needs data and not just visuals, Artec Studio Lite is a strong contender. The software has many of the “metrology” features of its Pro version, making it better for users who need to measure or manufacture from their scans.
In Artec Studio Lite’s ball park are 3DF Zephyr Lite and Agisoft Metashape Standard, but these have data limitations and lack the AI claims of Artec.
Artec says the “AI Photogrammetry” engine part of Artec Studio Lite is specifically trained to reconstruct the shiny or dark surfaces without physical masking or sprays, saving significant prep time.
Key features highlighted in the release include:
- Multi-camera support: Users can combine footage from different devices (e.g., a drone and a DSLR) in a single click.
- No-masking algorithms: The software can process objects captured on turntables or flipped during shooting without creating artifacts.
- Sharp image prioritization: An automated feature that selects the sharpest images for texturing, optimizing models for visual use cases like CGI.
- Built-in scale bars: This feature allows for sub-millimeter accuracy, facilitating real-world measurements and CAD deviation analysis.
Beyond capture, the software includes mesh editing capabilities, tools to prepare models for 3D printing, and export options for standard formats used in third-party applications.
Software as a Future-Proof Solution
Artec 3D emphasizes the advantage of a software-first approach over investing in entry-level hardware. Unlike low-cost scanners with fixed capabilities, Artec Studio Lite is designed to evolve through annual updates that incorporate professional workflows. Yukhin noted that the software serves as a “self-sufficient” solution for digital twins, reinforcing the company’s slogan, “The power is in the software.”
Artec Studio Lite Tech Specs
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License: The text of "New Artec Studio Lite: Turn Your Smartphone Into a Pro-Grade 3D Scanner" by All3DP Pro is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.