Top 10 Apps to explore AR/VR in Architecture – Android + iOS

Technology has changed the face of architecture. Architecture apps have changed the game for architects, contractors, and project managers, whether they’re in the field, in the office, or working from home. They’ve simplified design workflows, made it easier to collaborate with clients and co-workers, and eliminated time-consuming paperwork. At first, the world of virtual architecture software can appear intimidating. For those of you who are just getting started with digital design software, virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) face the challenge of transitioning and adapting to new technology. However, the advantages, on the other hand, are enormous. You can showcase your models in ways you never imagined possible with the help of virtual reality. Instead of explaining your concepts to clients, show them a virtual model that includes everything you want them to see. Many architects have embraced virtual reality as a result of this. Many companies are incorporating virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) into their presentations as soon as possible. It’s no surprise that more and more architectural design firms are beginning to use these cutting-edge technologies. Here are the Top 10 software & Apps to start and explore your VR/AR journey: ARki ARki is a mixed reality app designed specifically for architects and only available on Apple’s iOS platforms. ARki allows you to create quick models on top of your 2D floor plans using an app that works on both Android and iOS devices. In a matter of minutes, you can create a virtual model, but that’s not all. The software allows you to tinker with your 3D models using augmented reality, allowing you to add various types of interactivities. You can also customize the model’s materials, making it more realistic. The best part is that you can record and share your model explorations on social media.  Its free basic version allows you to import 3D models of architectural designs directly into the app, which you can then view in augmented reality. The app’s pro version also allows you to synchronize data across multiple devices and share projects with multiple users. ARki also allows you to improve the efficiency of your construction crews by streamlining their workflow. Architect firms that have used it have given it high marks. This app’s most popular use is to show clients how the building will appear on the construction site. Not everyone can visualize a set of blueprints or sketches as a real structure. They don’t have to with this app. It is extremely beneficial in bridging the gap between the client and the architect. ARki is widely regarded as the best-augmented reality app for presenting designs to clients as it allows you to share on-site videos and screenshots, as well as demonstrate your design concepts in person. FBX files from ArchiCAD, 3ds Max, Blender, Cinema 4D, Maya, MicroStation, Rhino, Revit, SketchUp, and other programs are supported by the app. IKEA Place  IKEA Place is one of the best-augmented reality apps for 3D rendering services for interior home design available today. The app uses augmented reality to map and measure the space where the furniture will be placed or added. IKEA launched this app targeting home decor and enabling customers to test products before buying. The Place app developed using Apple’s ARKit SDK can render scaled-down furniture pieces with 98 percent accuracy. IKEA Place is more than just a simple app that makes you want to buy new IKEA furniture for your home; it can also help you solve practical interior design issues. The app enables 3D furniture to be scaled to the exact dimensions of a room. If you can squeeze a virtual easy chair into the alcove and it fits well, you can expect the same to happen with the real thing. IKEA place is available on both iOS & Android platforms. Magicplan Magicplan is an all-in-one architectural drafting app that lets users create and share floor plans, generate field reports and estimates, and sync all of their data back to a single centralized hub. This AR app is available for Android and iOS and allows you to scan a room with your mobile device’s camera and generate accurate and crisp floor plans in 3D or 2D. Magicplan allows you to quickly create high-quality interior drawings that you can share with your contractors, team, and clients. You can also use these floor plans as a reference for photorealistic 3D interior design visualizations. Magicplan, according to several reviewers, allowed them to quickly create professional architectural drawings and floor plans without having to hire a professional architecture firm, making it an excellent choice for small contracting firms with limited resources. Morpholio Trace Pro Morpholio Trace Pro is an architect-friendly sketching and drawing app that lets you draw on top of maps, photos, images, and other documents. Users can collaborate with in-app markup tools and use AR, VR, and in-app intelligence to improve hand drawing. This is an all-in-one mobile CAD app for iOS that includes a variety of features in addition to augmented reality. It has two AR-powered tools: AR SketchWalk and AR Perspective Finder. AR Perspective Finder is a tool that can help you create architectural drafting on your mobile device. This app uses the camera on your iPad or iPhone’s integrated AR capabilities to scan a room and generate precise virtual perspective grids that can be drawn over with Apple Pencil. This allows you to create accurate drawings in real-time, even while on the go. The AR SketchWalk feature, on the other hand, allows you to virtually project all of your architectural CAD drawings onto a 1:1 scale environment. This allows you to choose between viewing the floor plans with elevations or just the floor plans. This is a great and simple way to show your project team and clients your design concepts. Overall, SketchWalk is the most exceptional AR feature designed for architects because none of the apps on this list provide something similar, and this distinguishes Morpholio Trace Pro from the competition. Augment This