Niantic has recently announced the release of Scaniverse 4, a groundbreaking update to their popular scanning app. This new version introduces a revolutionary scanning technique known as Gaussian Splitting, which promises to provide users with more detailed and accurate captures of objects and locations in 3D. Unlike traditional scanning methods, Gaussian Splitting captures a multitude of data points about an object, resulting in enhanced representation and faster rendering times.
Enhancing User Experience
With the acquisition of Scaniverse in 2021, Niantic has been working diligently to improve the app’s capabilities. Users can now capture objects and places with greater precision and detail, thanks to the new scanning techniques introduced in Scaniverse 4. These scans, known as splats, can be placed on a map for others to discover, allowing for a more immersive and accurate experience when exploring new locations.
The new scanning process in Scaniverse 4 is designed to be user-friendly and intuitive, making it accessible to a wide range of users. By simply selecting the splats on option in the capture menu, users can begin scanning an object by moving around it and capturing it from various angles. This simple yet effective approach ensures that users can create high-quality scans in just minutes.
Niantic understands the importance of privacy and is committed to ensuring that user data is protected. The company automatically blurs faces and license plates that appear in scans, and any moving objects during the scan are averaged out of the final render. This attention to detail not only protects the privacy of individuals but also ensures that scans are of the highest quality.
Brian McClendon, Niantic’s VP of Eng and co-inventor of Google Earth, has highlighted the benefits of Gaussian Splatting over traditional rendering techniques. With Gaussian Splatting, users can expect detailed renders with improved lighting and reflections, capturing intricate details such as window transparency, water reflections, and tree leaves. This approach marks a significant advancement in 3D scanning technology, allowing for more realistic and immersive experiences.
Niantic plans to offer richer data to developers through Scaniverse 4, enabling them to create new and innovative experiences. The company believes that XR content creators and 3D photography enthusiasts will play a crucial role in building a new visual map of the world. By harnessing the power of Gaussian Splats, Niantic aims to expand its database of scans and make them accessible for a wide range of applications, including gameplay and virtual reality experiences.
Niantic’s Scaniverse 4 represents a significant leap forward in the world of 3D scanning technology. By introducing Gaussian Splitting and enhancing the scanning process, the company is poised to revolutionize how users interact with the world around them. With an emphasis on user experience, privacy protection, and collaboration with developers, Niantic is paving the way for a new era of 3D content creation and exploration.