Apple Announces New USDZ Augmented Reality File Format Coming in iOS 12

Apple today announced a new augmented reality file format called Universal Scene Description (USDZ) during its keynote event at WWDC in San Jose, California.

Apple explained that USDZ was developed alongside animation studio Pixar and is an open file format optimized for creating and sharing 3D Augmented Reality assets in a compact, single file. This means that the format is optimized for sharing AR objects in apps like Messages, Safari, and Mail, while retaining powerful graphics and animation features.

USDZ is based on Pixar’s Universal Scene Description and makes it easy to experience AR nearly anywhere in iOS.

In conjunction with USDZ, Apple detailed a new feature called "Quick Look" for AR that allows users to place 3D objects into their real world surroundings "to see how something would work in a space.

Adobe VP Abhay Parasnis was introduced on stage during the keynote to confirm that it will have native support for Apple's new AR file format in its entire suite of Creative Cloud software applications, and will also be adding a new AR design app to CC with easy-to-use tools for creating new experiences.