What can you do with AI tools for 3D?
It's amazing to see how generative AI has advanced when you can create complex 3D models with text prompts. But that's not all these tools can do. For instance, you can use them to:
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Create 3D objects with prompts
Instead of using expensive and complicated software to create 3D models, you can try one of these tools to quickly generate 3D objects. All you have to do is type what kind of object you want, and the AI will return it to you in a matter of seconds (or minutes).
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Create 3D objects from photos
Or you may want to create a 3D object from photos. There are AI tools that will let you take a few photos and then generate a 3D model out of it. Sometimes, this may not work flawlessly, but the other times - you'll get exceptional results.
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Edit 3D objects
Once you get the first result, you may want to tweak it a bit. Some of these tools also let you do that by changing the materials or adding lighting if you fancy so.
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Create textures
Every 3D model needs a texture and while you can create it in a "regular" (desktop) software, there is also an option to do that right from the AI tool - at least in some cases. Here, the image generation algorithms kick in, allowing you to create all kinds of textures with text prompts. It's like creating any other image in apps like DALL-E and Stable Diffusion.
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Play with existing models
Many AI tools for 3D come with a library of 3D objects you could use in your creations. See if you can find the use for them in your creations, and perhaps tweak them to your liking. It is always easier to start with something.
As you've seen, 3D is the next frontier for AI, as the number of these tools is still not significant. But, as that's the case with other use cases, we're confident that the number of these tools will only grow. In the meantime, you still have plenty of tools to check out. So... what are you waiting for? :)
Frequently Asked Questions
Can AI create 3D models from text or images?
Yes, AI 3D tools generate full 3D models from either a written description or a single reference image. From text, you describe the object and the model invents the geometry; from an image, it infers depth and shape to reconstruct the item in three dimensions. Both produce a mesh you can export and refine.
How do AI 3D model generators work?
AI 3D generators are trained on large libraries of 3D shapes and learn how objects look from every angle. When you give a prompt or photo, the model predicts the geometry and surface texture, then outputs a mesh in a standard format like OBJ, GLB, or FBX. You can then open that file in any 3D software.
Are AI-generated 3D models ready for games or printing?
Sometimes, but often they need cleanup first. AI models are great as a fast starting point, yet the topology can be dense or uneven, which complicates animation, real-time use, and 3D printing. Plan to retopologize, check the scale, and verify the mesh is watertight before sending it into a production pipeline.
What file formats do AI 3D tools export?
Most AI 3D tools export common formats so the model fits into your existing workflow. GLB and OBJ are typical for general use, FBX is common for game engines and animation, and some tools add USDZ for AR. Check that your target software supports the format before committing to a particular tool.