USDZ is Apple’s latest file format for augmented reality on its iOS platforms, including iPhone and iPad. If you’ve ever browsed the Apple News app or launched an AR experience from the Safari web browser, chances are you’ve come across a USDZ file.
What is Universal Scene Description (USD)?
The USDZ file format was created through a partnership between Apple and Pixar. The format was announced at the Apple World Wide Developer Conference in the spring of 2018. USDZ builds on the existing USD format, another format designed for storing 3D models and animations, but is also optimized and compatible with mobile devices.
USDZ was developed as an open file format and can be used and implemented by anyone interested in its capabilities. The file acts as a container that holds numerous files and tools that the computer needs to open the format and display its contents correctly.
Since USDZ is an open file format, developers can create applications that can access the file’s contents. In the meantime, you’ll usually open such files via Apple’s new AR Quick Look app.
