TransformaHow to Convert 3D Models to USDZ for AR on iPhone
USDZ is Apple's format for augmented reality, letting you place 3D objects in the real world through your iPhone camera. If you have 3D models in OBJ, STL, PLY, or USD format, you need to convert them to USDZ before you can use AR Quick Look. Transforma handles this conversion entirely on your iPhone using Apple's Model I/O framework, with automatic runtime capability detection for your specific device.
Quick Answer
Open your 3D model file (OBJ, STL, PLY, or USD) in Transforma on your iPhone, tap USDZ as the output format, and convert. The resulting USDZ file opens directly in AR Quick Look so you can view the model in augmented reality.
Why You Might Need This
- USDZ is the only format that works with AR Quick Look on iPhone and iPad, so conversion is required for augmented reality viewing.
- Common 3D formats like OBJ and STL from 3D printing software or CAD tools cannot be viewed in AR without conversion.
- Sharing 3D models with clients or collaborators is far more impactful when they can place the object in their real environment.
- On-device conversion means you can prepare AR-ready models on the go without a desktop workstation or cloud service.
Step by Step
Open Transforma and select your 3D model
Launch Transforma and browse to your 3D model file. Supported input formats include OBJ, STL, PLY, and USD. You can import files from the Files app, iCloud Drive, or any connected storage provider.
Choose USDZ as the output format
Tap USDZ from the available output formats. Transforma uses runtime capability detection to verify your device supports the specific conversion before proceeding.
Review the conversion preview
Check the preview to confirm your model looks correct. PLY files with vertex colors will have those colors preserved in the output.
Save and open in AR Quick Look
Save the converted USDZ file to your device. Tap the file to open it directly in AR Quick Look, where you can place the 3D object in your real-world environment using your iPhone camera.
Tips for Best Results
- USDZ is required for AR Quick Look on iPhone and iPad — no other 3D format will trigger the AR viewer.
- OBJ and STL are the most common input formats from 3D printing and CAD workflows, and both convert reliably to USDZ.
- Not all devices support every conversion path — Transforma checks your device's capabilities at runtime and only shows supported options.
- PLY files with vertex colors will retain those colors in the USDZ output, preserving your model's visual appearance.
- USDZ files can be shared via AirDrop, Messages, or email, and recipients can view them in AR immediately on any Apple device.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is USDZ?
USDZ is Apple's 3D file format designed specifically for augmented reality experiences. It lets you place a 3D model in your real-world environment using your iPhone or iPad camera through AR Quick Look. USDZ files are self-contained packages that include the 3D geometry, textures, and materials in a single file.
Can I view the converted model in AR?
Yes. Once converted to USDZ, you can tap the file to open it directly in AR Quick Look. This lets you place the 3D object on any surface and walk around it using your iPhone camera. No additional AR app is needed.
What 3D formats does Transforma support?
Transforma supports OBJ, STL, PLY, USD, and USDZ formats for 3D model conversion. These cover the most common formats from 3D printing, CAD software, and game development tools.
Does my iPhone support 3D model conversion?
Transforma uses runtime capability detection to automatically check whether your specific device supports a given 3D conversion. If a conversion path isn't available on your hardware, it won't appear as an option, so you'll never encounter a failed conversion due to device limitations.
Try It Yourself with Transforma
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