The 3D sharing platform known as Sketchfab, which has been boasting itself as the largest online collection of 3D models, is diving headfirst into the world of virtual reality (VR). To show off what’s possible with the new VR dynamic, the company launched a showcase app, Sketchfab VR, which introduces users to a variety of 3D environments that can be explored in-depth using a VR headset.
The Sketchfab VR app menu. Image source: Sketchfab.
More than just a tool, the app is meant as a gateway into a bigger promise: to create what’s basically the YouTube of VR content. Sketchfab’s goal is to make it easy for people to share 3D objects or environments the way they would share a photo or video — by uploading them and inviting people to view, like, or embed them in other pages. This can include a simple action figure created in a modeling program such as Blender, or something as complex as a piece of the Minecraft world. Currently the app is available for the Oculus Rift, HTC Vive, Samsung VR, and Google Cardboard.
Uses for such an app span everything from virtual tourism to real-estate shopping to educational lessons that transport history to students through 3D-modeled environments in VR. But the best part about Sketchfab is that instead of offering VR content from select studios, everyone who wants to create and share VR content can do so with anyone.
Check out Sketchfab’s Van Gogh room below!
Van gogh Room by ruslans3d on Sketchfab
All 3D content shared on Sketchfab’s website by users can be viewed via the web or through Cardboard, but the latest app comes with the intent to grow the ranks of VR users to see beyond big-budget VR games and videos, and explore the many VR experiences being shared by individuals or small companies. In the months ahead, Sketchfab plans to turn its new VR app into a huge portal where users can experience a wide array of VR content from nearly any source.
If Sketchfab’s VR platform goal is a success, sharing and viewing VR content could someday be as common as sharing photos and videos today.
The Sketchfab VR app is available here as a free download.
Source: Mashable
Advertisement
Learn more about Electronic Products Magazine
