Google offers augmented reality experiences, or 3D objects in AR, through Google Search. These can be anything from dinosaurs to shoes. They're super fun to try. You just need a supported mobile device to access them.

What are Google's 3D objects in AR?

At Google I/O 2019, Google announced that animals would come to Google Search in the form of new augmented reality experiences and that you'd be able to view them using just your mobile device. These so-called 3D objects in AR are now available, and they're perfect for viewing the scale of something, like a dinosaur in comparison to your kitchen. They are very easy to find, too, as they appear right at the top of your search.

Google 3D objects: How to view dinosaurs in AR right in your kitchen photo 1

How to find Google's 3D objects in AR

It's really as simple as searching for “Octopus”, and then Google will show a "Search Knowledge Panel" - something often shown for movies and celebrities. For 3D objects, you’ll see an overview, a few images, and a “View in 3D” button that launches the AR experience. You will then see a “view in your space” or "AR" option. Tap it to actually see the 3D object in AR - your real-time environment, such as your kitchen or backyard.

Android phone or tablet

To view 3D results, you need an Android phone running Android 7 and up. To interact with 3D results in AR, you need an Android phone that supports ARCore.

  1. On your Android phone, go to google.com or open the Google app.
  2. Search for an animal, object, or place.
  3. If a 3D result is available, tap View in 3D.
  4. To interact with the 3D result in AR, tap View in your space.
  5. Follow the on-screen instructions.

iPhone or iPad

To view 3D results and interact with them in AR, you need an iPhone 6s or later running iOS 11 and up as well as the Safari browser or the Google app.

  1. On your iPhone, open Safari, Chrome, or the Google app.
  2. Go to google.com.
  3. Search for an animal, object, or place.
  4. If a 3D result is available, tap View in 3D.
  5. To interact with the 3D result:
    • In AR: Tap AR and then follow the on-screen instructions.
    • On your iPhone: Tap Object.

Are there hardware requirements?

As detailed above, if you want to view 3D objects in Google Search, you’ll need:

  • Android smartphone or tablet running Android 7.0 or higher
  • iPhone or iPad running iOS 11.0 or higher

Google's 3D objects in AR are not accessible from a desktop or laptop computer.

How many Google 3D objects in AR exist?

Google keeps a full list here. A partial list is below.

Animals

Dogs

Dinosaurs and ancient creatures

Automobiles

Apparel

Space

Biology

Want to know more?

Check out Google's Support page for 3D objects in AR.