Microsoft Research is working on technology that would enable normal Windows Phone camera to scan physical objects and convert them into 3D models via a 3D printer.
The 3D reconstruction process is called Skynet UI, which is meant to make the entire process a whole lot easier for consumers to use.
Microsoft’s Asia Research team, which includes Zhiwei Li, Richard Cai and Jiawei Gu, said: "The Skynet UI design aims to enhance user experience to lower the barriers between common consumers and 3D reconstruction.
The researchers used a normal Windows Phone device camera to capture physical objects and turn them into 3D models.
US tech firm anticipate that the new technology would allow consumers to use their mobile devices for augmented reality furniture and space arrangement, e-commerce visualisation, object recognition and search.
Microsoft is also working on ‘no-touch’ screen technology, which would enable operating phones, tablets and TVs from a distance, without requiring them to swipe over to the device manually.
