Matterport Pro3: A Game-Changing Tool for Commercial Real Estate Scans

Introduction

In their latest video, Emily and Kevin explore the capabilities of the Matterport Pro3, a revolutionary scanning tool used in the field of commercial real estate. They embark on a shoot in San Francisco, taking on the challenge of scanning two entire floors in a commercial building. This article will delve into their experience, highlighting the advantages and limitations of the Matterport Pro3.

Enhanced Scanning Capabilities

Kevin begins by comparing the Pro3 to its predecessor, the Pro2. He notes that the Pro3 allows for larger scans, covering more area with each step. In their shoot on the vacant eighth floor of the building, they were able to witness the Pro3's superior performance. Not only did it significantly reduce the time required for scanning, but it also offered a greater range and scope than the Pro2.

Furniture and Navigation Challenges

Moving on to the next floor, which was furnished, Emily and Kevin discuss the minor setbacks they encountered. Navigating through rooms with furniture required strategic planning and occasional stops. Despite these interruptions, the Pro3 still proved to be remarkably faster than the Pro2. They expressed excitement about the Pro3's ability to jump quickly from one scan to another, making the Pro2 seem excruciatingly slow in comparison.

Overcoming Sunlight and Open Space Challenges

Kevin brings up the issue of dealing with sunlight and a large open space in a shell condition, which he faced in a previous shoot. The Pro3 appeared to address these challenges, offering solutions to various problems. Additionally, Kevin mentions the Pro3's potential for scanning outdoor environments, including unique architectural features or backyard designs. These outdoor scans can be highly appealing and act as a significant selling point for real estate properties.

Alignment Issues and Limitations

Emily and Kevin both discuss alignment issues they encountered during their shoot. Emily faced difficulties aligning scans when passing through glass doors, while Kevin experienced errors when moving between rooms. These were complications they did not anticipate with the Pro3, and they speculate that the Pro4 might offer a resolution to these issues. Despite these limitations, they both agree that the benefits of the Pro3 far outweigh its few negatives.

The Saving Grace: Time and Efficiency

Reflecting on their overall experience, Emily and Kevin emphasize the tremendous time savings achieved through the use of the Pro3. In this shoot, they completed scanning 19,000 square feet of the building in just a couple of hours. They estimate that, with more proficiency and minimal interruptions, the entire process could be completed in just two to two and a half hours. This incredible speed, combined with the Pro3's ability to fix errors and streamline the scanning process, makes it a game changer in commercial real estate.

Battery Life and Data Handling

Another significant aspect they touch upon is the Pro3's battery life. Emily demonstrates that at 20% battery life, the Pro3 started displaying error messages. They estimate that the Pro3 can cover approximately 400 scans on a four-hour battery charge, averaging about four to five scans per percentage point of battery life. Comparing this to the Pro2, they estimate that the Pro3 can provide double the number of scans, significantly reducing the scanning time for large-scale projects.

RAM and Data Loading Considerations

Emily points out the possibility of using an iPad with LiDAR capabilities in conjunction with the Pro3. Although she did not have the opportunity to test this during their shoot, she speculates that the increased RAM of an iPad could potentially enhance data processing and loading speeds. However, further research is required to determine the precise impact of utilizing an iPad in conjunction with the Pro3.

The Final Result: Impressive Scans and Model Quality

After processing the scans and creating a model, Emily and Kevin are pleased with the outcome. The scans captured using the Pro3 demonstrate excellent fidelity and quality. While some density is observed around the core of the building, the Pro3 scans, spaced further apart, showcase impressive visibility and reduce the need for excessive density. The model generated from the Pro3 scans looks clean and visually appealing. They do note that some adjustments are necessary to minimize the clusters of scans around the core of the building for aesthetic purposes.

Financial Considerations and Limitations

Emily takes a moment to address a significant drawback of the Pro3. She mentions that Classic Plan users will not be able to upload scans using the Pro3. Users with a new or standard plan can upload scans without any issues. However, for users with clients who have been on the Classic Plan for an extended period, this restriction might require obtaining a new account, impacting financial margins and business models. Emily advises evaluating the financial feasibility of hosting scans for clients and adjusting pricing accordingly.

Acknowledging Technical Improvements

Emily concludes the video by discussing the noticeable improvement in infrared and LiDAR technology. She highlights the minimized warping effect, particularly near windows, which contributes to a cleaner and more accurate representation of the scanned space. The data captured by the Pro3 demonstrates improved quality and precision, further enhancing the overall scanning experience.

A Game Changer for AEC Professionals

Finally, Emily and Kevin conclude that the Matterport Pro3 is a game changer, particularly for professionals in the architecture, engineering, and construction fields. Its ability to efficiently scan large commercial spaces while maintaining quality and fidelity makes it an invaluable tool for real estate professionals.

In conclusion, the Matterport Pro3 proves to be an exceptional asset for those in the commercial real estate industry. With its ability to save significant time, handle diverse challenges, and generate high-quality scans and models, the Pro3 sets a new standard for scanning technology. Despite a few limitations, the Pro3's advantages far outweigh its drawbacks, making it a worthwhile investment for professionals looking to streamline their scanning processes and deliver exceptional results.