Microsoft creates app to turn smartphone into 3D scanner

PanARMENIAN.Net - Microsoft's research team has created an experimental mobile app that will turn any smartphone into a 3D scanner, Digital Spy reports.

MobileFusion uses the RGB capabilities of a handset's rear camera to shoot an object multiple times from various angles and assemble a 3D model on screen.

The models, which are crafted without the aid of any additional hardware or an internet connection, are said to be robust enough for 3D printing.

The technology is an extension of Microsoft's Kinect Fusion project, which allowed users to create 3D models through a Kinect camera.

However, it avoids the pitfalls of the earlier venture by working independently of a PC, allowing users to create 3D imagery on the move.

Microsoft also claims that the app could be used to create graphics for augmented-reality applications, hinting at compatibility with the upcoming HoloLens headset.

The computing giant has no firm plans to release the software to the public, but is aiming to bring it to iOS, Android and Windows Phone devices in the future.