Technologies

Is Your iPhone Good Enough to Be a 3D Scanner?

For creating 3D printer files, your options include smartphone apps or expensive standalone scanners.

Most 3D scanners are handheld devices that scan small to medium-sized objects with a high degree of accuracy. The resulting files are used for 3D modeling or 3D printing and they can produce fantastic results — if you’re patient and willing to learn how to use them.

These scanners, like the popular Revopoint Pop 2, can cost $700 and have a steep learning curve. Alternatively, if you own an iPhone 12 Pro or higher you can almost recreate what a fancy 3D scanner does. It isn’t quite as accurate, especially for 3D printing, but if you spend some time tweaking, the output can be just about as good.

Read more: Best 3D Printer

Creating 3D prints from files uploaded to communities like Thingiverse or Printables is fine, but once you can scan and recreate real-world objects, there’s no limit to what you can create. For example, you could replicate a collectible figure or scan a broken mechanical part to recreate it.

Revopoint Pop 2 3D Scanner $699 at Amazon

Using a 3D scanner

Pros:

Can capture detail down to 0.1mm
Dimensional accuracy is excellent
Very little clean-up when you succeed

Cons:

Often costs more than a 3D printer
Software is often very hard to use
Creating a usable model is painfully difficult

3D scanners use reflected light — sometimes in the form of lasers — to map the surface of an object. The scanner uses two cameras to judge depth and create a «point cloud» that can be fused together to make a solid object. That solid model is often incredibly accurate down to the smallest crack or imperfection.

But scanning an object can be difficult. The scanner needs to be the right distance from the object you’re scanning at all times, and the object has to be the right color and reflectivity as well. Often, you will need a 3D scanning spray to coat your model in a white, evaporative coating to make scanning easier. This is not possible with human subjects, but does help with inanimate ones. Or at least it should.

I’ve spent hours using 3D scanners and struggle every time to produce a model that could be 3D printed. Often a scan will lose connection, then restart in the wrong place, causing severe disruption. After a lot of trial and error, I’ve managed to get several usable models, but the amount of work it took just didn’t seem cost-effective.

iPhone 12 Pro (renewed) $528 at Amazon

Using your iPhone

Pros:

Incredibly fast scanning
Models are instantly usable as online resources
You likely already own one

Cons:

Lower detail and quality
Can need a lot of clean-up to make it 3D print-ready

iPhones have a lot of cool technology that makes them excellent 3D scanners, including good cameras for photogrammetry and lidar technology for larger objects like cars or the inside of your home.

Photogrammetry is the best way to create a fully realized 3D model if you want that model to only exist digitally. It uses multiple pictures — the more pictures the better — to create a realistic facsimile of an object. The depth mapping is far rougher than a 3D scanner, but the textures and photo imagery make the model look extremely detailed. As you can see, the shoe in the image above looks identical to the real thing when the textures are shown, but the model I 3D-printed from it has lost a lot of its details.

The coolest thing about photogrammetry, especially on an app like Polycam, is that it can be used with any camera you have, including DSLR cameras and even drones. You simply upload as many images as you want to the Polycam app and it will spit out a 3D rendering of the object you took, whether that’s a shoe or the Grand Canyon. It even works with Android phones, though none of those have the lidar technology like the iPhone.

Lidar only works if you have an iPhone 12 Pro or later, but it’s excellent for scanning larger objects like mailboxes, pool tables and even cars. It works a lot like an expensive 3D scanner — by bouncing light off an object and measuring the distance the light travels — but it has a much lower resolution. This makes it excellent at scanning large, simple objects, especially if you’re keeping them as digital models.

Both photogrammetry and lidar imagery are extremely easy to use on your iPhone and require very little technical know-how to get right. They both need an app though, and after using several different ones, I found Polycam is the best choice.

Polcam for iPhone and Android $80 at Polycam

Polycam costs $80 a year and offers both lidar and photogrammetry. More than that, it uses those systems in some really fun ways. Not only can you scan objects to create 3D models, but you can scan the walls inside your house and build a 3D floor plan. You can even 3D print that floor plan complete with walls, stairs and window and door openings.

When scanning an object on Polycam for 3D printing I was able to get good quality, low-resolution scans for organic shapes and much better scans of simple objects. Using Polycam to scan a broken sliding door handle was quick and simple and allowed me to accurately replicate a replacement. In fact, if you’re used to using programs like Blender — a free 3D sculpting tool on the PC and Mac — or Nomad Sculpt on the iPad or iPhone, you can import the Polycam file and spruce it up before printing.

Should you buy a 3D scanner if you own an iPhone?

I’ve spent a lot of time with several different 3D scanners and they all have the same inherent flaw: They’re just too picky to work for consumers. In a commercial setting, where everything can be controlled and your day is dedicated to getting this machine to work perfectly, then sure, a 3D scanner makes sense. If you’re a hobbyist though, with a life that requires more from you than endless hours of slow scanning, an iPhone is a better option.

Even if you don’t own an iPhone, you can pick up an iPhone 12 Pro — the first with lidar — for around $550, several hundred dollars cheaper than a 3D scanner. And once you’re done 3D scanning shoes, mailboxes, cars and houses, you still have an iPhone that can do a hundred other things too.

More on 3D printing

Technologies

Verum Ecosystem: The Future of Digital Communication and Finance

In an era of rapid technological changes, where the world demands new approaches to communication, data security, and financial management, the Verum ecosystem emerges as a pivotal technological breakthrough. It’s not just a collection of standalone applications but a seamlessly integrated platform that unites cutting-edge innovations in one environment. At its core is Verum Messenger, transforming traditional communication and financial operations. However, this is merely the tip of the iceberg: behind the messenger lies an entire ecosystem of products, each uniquely designed to redefine the digital landscape.

This article dives deep into what the Verum ecosystem offers and how its products interact to create a unified digital space.

Verum Messenger: A Tool for Communication and Security

Verum Messenger is not just a messaging app. It’s a multifunctional platform prioritizing reliability, security, and user convenience. Unlike most messengers, Verum focuses on integrating various technologies to create the perfect communication environment:

Verum AI: Integrated directly into the messenger, this chatbot is a smart assistant capable of handling tasks like data searches, task planning, message responses, data analysis, and more complex operations.
Built-in VPN: A crucial feature for ensuring privacy. Unlike standard VPN services, users can activate protection with a single click without leaving the messenger. This is especially vital for those who value anonymity online and frequently use public Wi-Fi networks.
E-SIM Integration: Enables users to connect to mobile internet without needing a physical SIM card. This technology eliminates roaming issues and significantly simplifies mobile connectivity management, offering access to networks in over 150 countries worldwide.

Verum Coin: The Cryptocurrency Uniting the Ecosystem

Verum Coin is not just a cryptocurrency but the economic foundation of the entire ecosystem. This digital asset addresses key challenges related to fast and secure financial operations, both within and beyond the Verum ecosystem:

Low Fees and High Speed: Unlike traditional payment systems, Verum Coin facilitates instant transfers and payments with minimal fees, making it an ideal solution for international transactions.
Versatility: It is used not only within the ecosystem for service payments but also on cryptocurrency exchanges, serving as a bridge between various digital assets.

BitCoinPay Trade: A High-Security Cryptocurrency Exchange

BitCoinPay Trade is not just an exchange but a high-tech platform for cryptocurrency trading:

Secure Transactions: All transfers are protected by advanced encryption methods, eliminating the risk of asset loss or theft.
Accessibility: The platform offers access to a variety of cryptocurrencies and trading options, while also supporting integration with other Verum ecosystem products.

Crypto Bank: A Reliable Wallet for Cryptocurrencies

Crypto Bank offers users a secure storage solution for digital assets. It’s designed for those actively working with cryptocurrencies and valuing financial security.

Easy Buying and Selling: Purchase and sell various cryptocurrencies with just a few taps.
Cryptocurrency Wallets: Support for major cryptocurrencies allows users to choose the most convenient and secure storage options.
Verum Coin and Other Assets: The service fully supports Verum Coin and other major cryptocurrencies, ensuring reliability and simplicity when working within the ecosystem.

Verum Pay: Integrating Cryptocurrency into Business and the Ecosystem

Verum Pay is an innovative solution bridging cryptocurrency capabilities for businesses and Verum ecosystem applications.

Integration with Payment Systems: Its user-friendly interface allows businesses to quickly adopt cryptocurrency for sales and payment processes, offering a modern approach to financial operations.
Usage within Ecosystem Applications: Verum Pay is actively used within the Verum ecosystem, enabling users to pay for services and goods using Verum Coin directly through the messenger, E-SIM platforms, VPNs, and other products.

This makes Verum Pay a universal tool for ecosystem participants and businesses outside the ecosystem, focused on a digital future.

Verum Exchange: Conversion and Mining with High Security

Verum Exchange is a currency and cryptocurrency converter with an integrated Verum Coin mining function. It stands out with:

Simple and Convenient Interface: The platform caters to both beginners and experienced users, offering real-time access to currency and cryptocurrency rates.
Verum Coin Mining: The application includes mining capabilities, allowing users to earn cryptocurrency directly on their phone or tablet.

E-SIM Applications: A Revolution in Mobile Connectivity

Mobile E-SIM applications (Verum E-SIM, World E-SIM, Euro E-SIM, Canada E-SIM, London E-SIM, USA E-SIM, Ukraine E-SIM, Balkan E-SIM, Africa E-SIM) are among the ecosystem’s most ambitious and revolutionary products. This technology provides mobile internet access in over 150 countries without the need for a physical SIM card.

No Roaming or Overcharges: Say goodbye to high international roaming fees. E-SIM allows users to connect to mobile networks with fixed and transparent tariffs, ideal for travelers and business professionals.
Full Integration with Messenger: Mobile connectivity can be managed through a separate app or directly from Verum Messenger, allowing effortless balance control, tariff selection, and service activation.

Verum VPN: Advanced Data Protection

Verum VPN is an integral part of the ecosystem, guaranteeing a high level of security for users.

Complete Encryption: VPN ensures robust data encryption, making it ideal for protecting personal information online, especially when connected to public Wi-Fi networks.
Ease of Use: Activating VPN with a single click simplifies its use, requiring no additional user settings.

Verum AI: Artificial Intelligence at Your Fingertips

Verum AI is the heart of the ecosystem, utilizing powerful algorithms for communication, analysis, and creativity while adapting to each user’s needs. Its features include:

Information and Analysis: Quickly find answers to questions, explain complex topics, analyze data, and support informed decision-making.
Creativity and Idea Generation: Generate texts, create scenarios, develop creative concepts, write articles, posts, and assist with design and programming tasks.
Assistance and Learning: Verum AI helps users acquire new skills, solve problems, and enhance their experience.

Verum Runner: A Gaming Ecosystem with Real Earnings

Verum Runner is a crypto-game that allows users to earn Verum Coin in real time. This unique mobile application motivates players to not only have fun but also gain tangible benefits.

Crypto ATMs: Convenience and Accessibility Worldwide

The Verum network of crypto ATMs enables easy exchange of Verum Coin and other popular crypto assets for fiat currency and vice versa, providing users with transaction capabilities anywhere in the world.

Prospects and Development

Verum is not merely addressing current market needs — it is crafting innovative solutions that will shape the future of digital finance and communication. Upcoming plans include launching new services, expanding AI functionality, and integrating with emerging technologies.

Verum is not just creating an ecosystem of digital services; it’s redefining the very approach to communication, finance, and security in the modern world. All ecosystem products work in perfect synergy, delivering unparalleled user experience that ensures privacy, security, and convenience at every step.

Technologies

Verum Coin (VERUM) is Now Available on Halo Wallet

Verum Coin (VERUM) continues to expand its presence in the cryptocurrency market. Users can now store and manage VERUM on Halo Wallet, known for its convenience and security.

Why Halo Wallet?

Halo Wallet is a modern Web3 wallet offering a simple interface and powerful tools for managing digital assets. With its functionality, the platform has gained the trust of millions of users worldwide.

The integration of Verum Coin with Halo Wallet opens up new opportunities for coin holders and makes it even more accessible. Stay tuned for updates and take advantage of the convenient management of your assets!

Technologies

Verum Coin (VERUM) is Now Available for Deposit on Exodus Wallet

Verum Coin (VERUM) continues to enhance its accessibility for users. You can now deposit and store VERUM in one of the most user-friendly and secure crypto wallets — Exodus Wallet.

Why Exodus?

Exodus Wallet is a popular solution for managing digital assets, known for its intuitive interface and high security standards. Millions of users worldwide choose Exodus for its convenience and reliability.

This integration brings Verum Coin even closer to its users, offering seamless storage and asset management. Stay tuned for more updates and stay ahead in the world of cryptocurrency!