In a groundbreaking move, Niantic has introduced a new version of its Scaniverse app, which is set to revolutionize the way users capture objects and places around them. Scaniverse 4 incorporates a cutting-edge Gaussian Splitting technique that enhances the 3D scanning process, allowing for more detailed and accurate representations of scanned objects.
With the acquisition of Scaniverse in 2021, Niantic has been working tirelessly to enhance the app’s capabilities. The new scanning method enables users to capture objects in 3D with a higher level of precision by utilizing Gaussian Splitting. This technique captures a wealth of data points about an object, resulting in faster rendering and more detailed representations.
Previously, Scaniverse allowed users to scan objects and places for storage or sharing purposes. However, with the introduction of Gaussian Splitting, users can now place these scans – referred to as “splats” – on a map. This allows others to discover these splats and experience new places with improved accuracy and detail.
The new scanning process is designed to be user-friendly and straightforward. Users can select the splats-on option from the capture menu and begin the scanning process by moving around the object and capturing it from various angles. Once the scan is completed, the app processes the data, allowing users to place the splat on a map, share the model, or share the video with others.
Niantic has taken privacy concerns into account by automatically blurring faces and license plates that appear in the scan. Additionally, any moving objects in the frames during the scan are averaged out of the final render. This ensures that the scanned objects are represented accurately while respecting the privacy of individuals.
Brian McClendon, Niantic’s VP of Eng and co-inventor of Google Earth, highlighted the improvements in rendering with the Gaussian Splatting approach. This technique offers a more detailed render with enhanced lighting and reflections compared to the previous version of Scaniverse. The use of Gaussian splats results in more realistic representations, capturing finer details such as window transparency, water reflections, and tree leaves.
Niantic plans to leverage the rich data generated by Scaniverse to offer developers even more opportunities. The company believes that XR content creators and 3D photography enthusiasts using Scaniverse will help build a new visual map. With millions of Gaussian Splats-powered scans in the pipeline, Niantic aims to make this data available for developers to enhance gameplay and virtual reality experiences.
In addition to offering the data to external developers, Niantic plans to integrate these scans into its own games. This integration will enable virtual characters to interact more seamlessly with real-life objects, offering players a more immersive gaming experience across Niantic’s portfolio of games.
Niantic’s Scaniverse 4 represents a significant leap forward in the field of 3D scanning technology. With its innovative Gaussian Splitting technique, enhanced rendering capabilities, and plans for future expansion, Scaniverse is poised to shape the future of 3D scanning and visualization.