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What is a USDZ file?
USDZ is an uncompressed ZIP package around Pixar's Universal Scene Description, created with Apple in 2018. It is the format iOS uses for AR Quick Look, so if you want a model to open in AR straight from Safari or Messages on an iPhone, this is the required format.
At a glance
- Full name
- Universal Scene Description (zipped)
- Extensions
- .usdz
- Type
- 3D model
- Introduced
- 2018
- Created by
- Apple and Pixar
- Compression
- None
- MIME type
- model/vnd.usdz+zip
Strengths
- The native format for AR Quick Look on iOS and iPadOS
- Single self-contained package including textures
- Built on USD, which scales to very large scenes
Limitations
- Effectively Apple-centric; Android AR uses glTF/GLB
- Tooling is less mature than for glTF
When to use USDZ
Use it when
Publishing a model for AR preview on iPhone or iPad.
Avoid it when
Targeting Android or the general web. Use GLB.
Convert USDZ files
Every tool below runs in your browser unless it is labelled otherwise, so the file stays on your device.
USDZ compared
Related 3d model formats
Last updated 2026-08-03