What is a .usdz file?
Universal Scene Description (zipped) · 3D model · Pixar / Apple · 2018
A .usdz file is Apple's format for augmented reality, a zipped bundle of Pixar's Universal Scene Description assets. Tapping one on an iPhone or iPad drops a 3D model into the real world through AR Quick Look.
What is a .usdz file used for?
USDZ packages a USD scene with its textures into a single uncompressed ZIP, so it starts with the ZIP signature. Apple uses it for AR across iOS, and it is becoming a general 3D interchange format.
Create it from USD, glTF or other formats with Apple's Reality Converter or command-line USD tools. On non-Apple platforms, converters turn it into glTF.
How to open a .usdz file
The .usdz format opens in the following apps, grouped by operating system. If one app does not work, try another from the same list. For a step-by-step walkthrough, see how to open a .usdz file.
Windows
- USD tools
- convert to glTF
macOS
- AR Quick Look
- Reality Converter
- Preview
Linux
- USD tools (usdview)
Web
- AR Quick Look on iOS Safari
How to convert a .usdz file
You can convert a .usdz file to gltf, obj using a conversion tool or the export menu of an app that opens it.
.usdz file signature (magic bytes)
Programs recognise a .usdz file by the bytes at the start of the file, not by its name. These are the signatures for USDZ. For a full breakdown, see the USDZ file signature page.
| Hex signature | Offset | Note |
|---|---|---|
| 50 4B 03 04 | 0 | uncompressed ZIP package |
See the full magic-numbers reference for every format.
Frequently asked questions
What is a .usdz file?
A .usdz file is Apple's format for augmented reality, a zipped bundle of Pixar's Universal Scene Description assets. Tapping one on an iPhone or iPad drops a 3D model into the real world through AR Quick Look.
How do I open a USDZ file?
On an iPhone, iPad or Mac, tap it to view in AR Quick Look. Elsewhere, use Pixar's usdview or convert it to glTF.
What is USDZ used for?
Augmented reality on Apple devices: previewing furniture, products and models placed in your real surroundings, plus general 3D interchange.
What is the difference between USDZ and glTF?
Both deliver 3D for AR and the web. USDZ is Apple's ZIP-packaged USD for iOS AR; glTF is the cross-platform standard, especially on Android and the web.
Related formats
Sources
Details on this page were checked against authoritative references: