Niantic Acquires 3D Scanning App Scaniverse

Niantic Advances 3D World Mapping Capabilities

Niantic is actively progressing in its efforts to construct a comprehensive 3D representation of the globe.

The company revealed this morning the acquisition of Scaniverse, a mobile application designed for iPhone and iPad that facilitates the creation of high-resolution 3D scans of objects and surrounding environments.

Scaniverse to Remain Available

According to a Niantic spokesperson, Scaniverse will continue to be accessible on the App Store, with ongoing development and support planned as a distinct application.

Previously exclusive features, offered through a $17 annual “Pro” subscription – such as enhanced resolution processing and compatibility for exporting models to various 3D software platforms – will now be available at no cost.

The Vision of a 3D World

As previously reported several years ago, a core objective for Niantic is the development of a detailed and continuously updated 3D map of the world.

This is viewed as a crucial foundation for delivering genuinely immersive augmented reality (AR) experiences, particularly in anticipation of wider adoption of AR technologies like glasses.

The undertaking is substantial and ongoing, but is aided by the company’s extensive player community participating in games like Pokémon GO, Harry Potter: Wizards Unite, and Ingress.

Acquisition Details and Team Expansion

As part of this agreement, Scaniverse’s creator, Keith Ito, will be integrating into Niantic’s augmented reality team.

The company has not disclosed the specific financial terms of the acquisition.

This acquisition represents Niantic’s continued investment in the 3D mapping sector, following their earlier purchase of 6D.ai for an undisclosed amount in early 2020.

The acquisition of Scaniverse further strengthens Niantic’s position in developing the infrastructure for future AR applications.

This strategic move underscores the importance of detailed 3D mapping for the evolution of augmented reality technology.