How to View AR 3D Objects in Safari on iOS 12

With the release of iOS 12, Apple introduced AR Quick Look, a built-in feature that allows users to view 3D objects in augmented reality directly inside the Safari web browser without installing third-party apps. By utilizing a compact 3D file format called USDZ, Safari seamlessly integrates virtual objects into your physical environment through your device's camera. This guide explains the device requirements, how the technology functions, and the exact steps to locate and view 3D models in augmented reality on your device.

Device Requirements

To access AR Quick Look in Safari, your device must meet the following criteria:

  • Operating System: iOS 12 or later.
  • Hardware: An ARKit-compatible iOS device equipped with an A9 chip or newer. This includes iPhone 6s and later, iPhone SE, iPad (5th generation and later), and all iPad Pro models.

Understanding the USDZ Format

Apple partnered with Pixar to create the USDZ format specifically for augmented reality. These files are optimized for sharing and rendering realistic 3D graphics, animations, and lighting textures directly within iOS apps like Safari, Messages, and Mail without heavy load times.

Step-by-Step Instructions to View AR Models in Safari

  1. Open Safari: Launch the Safari app on your compatible iPhone or iPad running iOS 12.
  2. Navigate to an AR-Enabled Website: Visit a website hosting USDZ 3D models. Examples include Apple’s official AR Quick Look gallery, 3D asset libraries, or e-commerce sites that support the feature.
  3. Tap the 3D Model: Locate a 3D asset on the page. These are typically identified by an AR badge displaying a stylized 3D cube icon. Tapping this thumbnail immediately opens the AR Quick Look interface.
  4. Select Your View Mode:
    • AR Mode: Uses your rear camera to place the 3D object into your actual room or workspace.
    • Object Mode: Displays the 3D object against a plain, neutral background for a standalone 360-degree inspection.
  5. Anchor the Object in Your Environment: In AR mode, point your device at a flat surface—such as a floor, tabletop, or desk—and gently move the device from side to side. The system will detect the plane and drop the digital object onto that surface.
  6. Interact with the Object:
    • Move: Drag the object with one finger to reposition it along the detected surface.
    • Rotate: Place two fingers on the screen and twist to change its orientation.
    • Scale: Pinch in or out to resize the object, or double-tap to instantly return it to its 100% real-world scale.
  7. Exit the Viewer: Tap the X button in the upper-left corner to close the AR Quick Look preview and return to your Safari browsing session.