Microsoft's Copilot 3D: AI Transforms Photos to 3D Models
Microsoft has taken another significant stride in democratizing advanced digital creation with the unveiling of Copilot 3D, an innovative AI-powered feature capable of transforming standard two-dimensional images into fully realized 3D models. This launch follows closely on the heels of the GPT-5-powered Smart Mode integration into Copilot, underscoring Microsoft’s accelerating commitment to making sophisticated AI tools broadly accessible. Described by the tech giant as a solution “designed to make 3D creations fast, accessible and intuitive,” Copilot 3D aims to bypass the steep learning curve and complexity traditionally associated with conventional 3D design software.
Integrated within Copilot Labs, this new capability offers a compelling advantage for anyone looking to rapidly prototype ideas, test design concepts, or facilitate hands-on learning without the need for specialized expertise. It is currently available free of charge to a select group of users, requiring only a Microsoft or Google account for access. For optimal performance and to avoid potential issues, Microsoft advises users to engage with Copilot 3D via a desktop browser. The process is straightforward: navigate to Copilot.com, locate the sidebar button, select ‘Labs’, and then click the ‘Try now’ option beneath the Copilot 3D listing.
The transformation process itself is remarkably simple. Users upload a PNG or JPG image, currently limited to 10MB, though Microsoft may expand supported formats and increase size limits in the future. Upon uploading, a click of the ‘Create’ button initiates the conversion, with the 3D model typically rendered within seconds to a minute. For best results, Microsoft recommends using images where the subject is clearly separated from its background. Early observations suggest that while the tool might occasionally struggle with complex subjects like animals, it demonstrates impressive proficiency with inanimate objects, such as furniture, umbrellas, or even a banana.
The generated 3D models are exported in GLB format, ensuring broad compatibility with the majority of 3D viewers, design tools, and game engines, and can even be exported for use in augmented reality applications. These models are conveniently saved on the user’s ‘My Creations’ page and remain accessible for a period of 28 days.
Microsoft has also outlined important usage guidelines for Copilot 3D. Users are strongly advised to upload only images for which they hold the necessary rights. Furthermore, uploading images depicting people is explicitly discouraged, as this could lead to account suspension for violating terms and conditions. Reassuringly, creations generated through Copilot 3D will not be utilized to train future AI models, although any content deemed illegal will be automatically blocked. This new offering positions Copilot 3D as a powerful, user-friendly tool poised to democratize 3D content creation, opening up new possibilities across design, gaming, and educational sectors.