4 Nov 2022

The top 11 mobile apps that every architect needs

Reinis Tocelovskis

Architecture is evolving to become more collaborative, daring, and realistic thanks to technology. Applications, tools, and software for 3D visualization that support architecture are released on a nearly daily basis. Mobile applications have our hearts even though programs for computers, laptops, and tablets may offer more functionalities. This is so that you may draw, think, and edit designs while you're out and about. For architects who want to keep their designs close to hand, mobile applications are easier to manage. The top ten smartphone apps for architects are listed below to assist with planning, organization, and storage of drawings.

Although there are numerous mobile applications available for architects, we've selected the best ones below that focus on output.

1. Autodesk 360

Architects may measure and mark up drawings with photographs and comments using Autodesk 360, a DWG viewer. From a mobile device, these designs can be rapidly shared with other members of the design team and the clients, facilitating smooth collaboration. AutoCAD 360's pro edition offers supplemental tools that boost editing power.

2. BIMx eXplorer

The BIMx Hyper-model is a key component of GRAPHISOFT's signature program, BIMx eXplorer. This all-encompassing technology gives designers access to granular 2D and 3D drawings. The models can be exchanged in real-time, which makes BIMx eXplorer unique and makes it simpler for architects to transmit updates from the project site.

3. Sun Seeker

The ideal tool for monitoring the sun's position is Sun Seeker. It is an application that uses augmented reality to show the sun path at any given time of day for any location in the world. The application also offers a function that uses GPS and magnetometer technology to create an intelligent solar path system. The 3D sundial, AR sunlight and moonlight simulation, and 3D compass viewing are some of Sun Seeker's further standout features.

4. RoomScan Pro

With the help of the Locometric app RoomScan Pro, you can create floor plans right from your phone. Architects may quickly plan spaces by tapping their phone on a room's four sides, which will automatically generate a floor plan. Additionally, the software contains tools that let you measure and sketch staircases. In addition, the user can scan and sketch gardens and the exteriors of buildings.

5. Planimeter

One of the practical mobile applications for measuring field areas and doing land surveys is called Planimeter. The user can measure perimeter, bearing, angle, and distance with the application. On mobile devices running iOS and Android, it is downlaodable. With Planimeter, you can measure distance while driving or walking around a site boundary with ease thanks to its many features, including pins, a magnifying glass, and a GPS tracker.

6. MagicPlan

RoomScan, a program that can automatically generate blueprints by mapping the walls in a room, is directly competed with by MagicPlan. MagicPlan is superior to RoomScan because it can easily generate floor plans from images. To create a layout that is 95% correct, the user must stand in the middle of the room and let the mobile device detect each of the room's corners, doors, and windows. Based on the developer's feasibility studies, the plan's accuracy is assessed. To attain 100% accuracy, Magic Plan can be synchronized with a laser measuring tool.

7. SketchUp Viewer

Sketchbook is an easy-to-use painting and drawing program created by Autodesk for anyone who enjoys drawing. Despite the fact that this application is not specifically used for creating blueprints and 3D models, it nonetheless enables architects to brainstorm ideas via sketching. The time-lapse recording option in SketchBook, which enables the user to record an in-app video of the drawing process and display the design evolution, is an interesting feature. The movie can be used as a unique approach to illustrate a company's design creation process on websites and social media.

8. Morpholio Trace

The iPhone and iPad are the best devices for using the iOS app Morpholio Trace. The user can draw over imported photos and background templates. The user may quickly create and share drawings for simple collaboration by layering comments or ideas on the drawing.

9. Archi Snapper

After a long day of site visits, the difficulty of writing field reports is addressed with ArchiSnapper. It makes the laborious and time-consuming process of creating reports easier so that architects may devote more time to designing. With the help of ArchiSnapper, users can take pictures, make sketches, drawings, annotations, and comments, from which the program creates a site report. It considers digitizing, categorizing, and arranging the accessible data before syncing it to the cloud.

10. SketchBook

11. My3D.Cloud

My3D.Cloud SaaS is a cloud-based collaboration platform for Architects and Contractors who uses 3D laser scanning and 3D modeling in their work.

We have created this platform to improve project delivery and collaboration experience. Thanks to it, users get the opportunity to increase the loyalty of their customers, and in turn, customers get time savings and maximum convenience.

My3D.Cloud - store, view, convert, share, and work on 3D projects with your team and clients!

Go to the website My3D.Cloud

In Conclusion

Applications make designing and building easier by saving time, money, and effort. To further technological integration in the AEC sector, these apps must be supported as they are beneficial for both professionals and students.