Matterport is a digital 3D scanning technology that allows users to create an interactive virtual experience of any physical location using specially designed cameras or smartphones. Once captured, users can explore the space in detail and virtually walk through the area as if they were physically present.
The service is similar to Google Street View but designed for the interior spaces of a property. Therefore, users can view a given area from multiple angles and freely move from room to room.
The Matterport technology is prevalent across several industries, including real estate, architecture, construction, hospitality, and retail. Its purpose is to enable customers to view a property or location without physically travelling to it. As a result, it has become a popular tool in presenting homes for sale, planning renovations, and documenting the construction process.
How Matterport Works?
Using Matterport software, you can scan any physical location and create an immersive 3D model that users can explore from anywhere on their computer or mobile device. Matterport uses a combination of 2D photographs and 3D depth data to develop a more accurate representation of how the building looks. Once the scan is complete, the software undergoes a processing stage to create the final virtual tour that closely resembles the original location.
How Matterport Captures a Space?
A Matterport 3D camera or a smartphone can be used to scan the property before capturing it in 3D format. Here’s how the capture process works:
- The device takes multiple photos from different angles.
- It records depth information to understand distances and room structure.
- The scanner moves around the space to capture every corner and detail.
- All collected data is saved and prepared for processing.
How Does the System Process and Build the 3D model?
Once this process is complete, the data is available for download from Matterport’s website. The Matterport Cloud can process the data to generate a 3D representation of the scanned area by completing the following tasks:
- It automatically stitches images together to form a complete visual.
- Depth points are used to measure accurately and model room shapes.
- The software builds a smooth, realistic 3D tour.
- The final model includes features such as floor plans, a dollhouse view, and virtual walkthrough navigation.
The Technology Behind Matterport
Matterport uses advanced technology to capture, process, and recreate real-world spaces in 3D. Its system combines cameras, depth sensors, and AI-powered cloud processing to create a highly accurate virtual tour.
Depth Sensors and Spatial Mapping Technology
- Depth sensors measure distance to many surfaces, including objects, walls, and floors.
- Depth sensors create a 2D representation of the area in which they are located.
- This allows the depth sensors to know the dimensions, shapes, and locations of all the objects within the area.
LiDAR vs. Infrared Scanning
- LiDAR is a method that uses laser light to measure distance and develop accurate 3D models.
- Infrared scanning utilises infrared light to identify the surfaces and depth of objects, generally used on smaller, less complex areas.
- Matterport cameras may use either method depending on the device and scanning requirements.
Cloud Processing and AI Automation
- After scanning, all data is uploaded to the Matterport cloud.
- Using AI software, the photos are stitched together and processed to create a 3D model through depth data received during the scan.
- The cloud also adds features like floor plans, dollhouse views, and navigation for virtual tours.
Matterport Cameras and supported Devices
Matterport provides several ways to create 3D tours. Professionals use the high-end Matterport camera. However, anyone can use an affordable 360-degree camera or a smartphone to scan spaces. This makes the technology available to everyone, from pros to beginners.
Matterport Pro Series Cameras
- These are Matterport’s most advanced and professional cameras.
- They use high-quality lenses and precise depth sensors to capture detailed scans.
- Ideal for commercial spaces, large homes, and projects that require accurate measurements.
- Known for producing the most reliable and consistent 3D models.
Compatible 360 Cameras
- These cameras offer a more affordable entry point for scanning.
- Suitable for small spaces, quick scans, or basic real estate walkthroughs.
- They may not capture as much detail as Pro Series cameras, but they are fast and convenient.
Scanning with Smartphones (iPhone and Android)
- Matterport’s mobile app lets users scan spaces using just a smartphone.
- Android devices can also be used for simple scans through the app.
- Best for small rooms, tight budget, or beginners learning how to create 3D tours.
Key Features of Matterport
Matterport provides several options to help you capture, explore, and understand the real world in a digital 3D format. The use of these key features enhances the overall user experience and allows companies to showcase their properties in a better way.
Dollhouse View
The property can be viewed in 3D via the model as a whole, which will give you a basic idea of what the property looks like when it is completed. You are able to tell where each room connects to one another as well as how the property is arranged.
Interactive 3D Walkthrough
Allows users to navigate the property as if they were on an in-person visit. They can walk from room to room, look around in 360 degrees, and explore the space at their own pace for a realistic experience.
Accurate Measurements and Floor Plans
Matterport captures precise dimensions using depth data. This allows measuring walls, windows, and objects within the tour, while auto-generated floor plans provide a clear understanding of room sizes.
High-Resolution 360° Imagery
Provides clean, detailed visuals that allow viewers to zoom in and inspect materials, textures, and finishes. This quality is useful for marketing and documentation.
Digital Twin Creation
Builds a complete virtual version of real space, known as a digital twin. This replica can be used for planning, renovation, inspections, remote collaboration, and long-term record keeping.
Benefits of Using Matterport
Matterport offers several advantages that make it valuable across many industries. Below are some of the key benefits it provides:
Realistic and Accurate Visualisation
Matterport creates a detailed 3D model that shows a space as it truly is. Users can view layouts, dimensions, and room connections with accuracy, helping them understand the area better than with traditional photos.
Saves Time and Reduces Site Visits
With Matterport, people can explore a location remotely, reducing the need for in-person visits. This saves time for buyers, clients, and professionals, while also speeding up planning and decision-making.
Enhanced Marketing and Customer Experience
Interactive 3D tours make any property or space more appealing. They help listings stand out, give customers a clearer picture, and build confidence before they commit to a visit, booking, or purchase.
Easy Sharing and Remote Collaboration
Matterport models can be shared with a simple link, allowing teams or clients to review a space from anywhere. This supports smoother communication and makes remote collaboration easier.
Better Documentation and Record Keeping
A Matterport scan acts as a reliable visual record of a space at a specific time. It is helpful for construction, insurance, and facility management, as it allows teams to track conditions and refer back to the model whenever needed.
How to Create a Matterport Virtual Tour?
Let’s look at how you can create a Matterport virtual tour step by step.
Preparing the Space for Scanning
Before scanning, the space should be clean, organised, and well-lit. Open doors, tidy surfaces, and remove clutter to ensure the virtual tour looks professional and easy to navigate.
Scanning Step-by-Step
The camera is placed at different points throughout the space, capturing each area from multiple angles. After each scan, it is moved to the next position, ensuring full coverage and smooth stitching of the final model.
Uploading and Processing the Scan
Once scanning is complete, the data is uploaded to the Matterport cloud. The platform uses AI to automatically build the 3D model, combining the images and depth information into a virtual tour.
Editing and Enhancing the Virtual Tour
Users can then edit the tour by adding labels, notes, or tags. Adjustments can be made to navigation points or unwanted areas to improve clarity and the viewer’s experience.
Publishing and Sharing the Tour
After finalising the tour, it can be published and shared through a simple link. This makes it easy for clients, teams, or customers to view the space remotely on any device.
The Future of Matterport and 3D Digital Twins
The future of Matterport and 3D digital twins looks promising as more industries start relying on digital versions of real spaces. With improvements in AI, scanning technology, and cloud processing, Matterport will be able to create models faster, with even more accuracy and detail.
Digital trends will play a bigger role in real estate, construction, facility management, retail, and smart buildings. They will help teams plan renovation, monitor changes, and collaborate remotely more efficiently. As VR and AR become more common, people will explore these spaces in even more immersive ways.
Conclusion
Matterport transforms physical spaces into interactive 3D models, allowing users to explore properties virtually with accuracy and detail. It is widely used across real estate, construction, hospitality, and other industries to save time, improve decision-making, and enhance collaboration. With advances in AI and scanning technology, Matterport and digital twins will play an even bigger role in planning, documentation, and virtual experiences, making it an essential tool for the future of space visualisation.
Its ability to create immersive, realistic tours helps businesses showcase properties more effectively and gives clients a clear understanding of spaces without the need for physical visits.
