Archive notice: This article was originally published on August 30, 2019. Links and embedded videos are preserved as part of the historical record.
RealityCapture has become a popular tool for photogrammetry enthusiasts in recent years. Compared with others, the software impresses not only with high-quality scans but above all with speed. The developers have now announced that they are revising the current licensing model: From September 30, the “promotional offer” aimed at small studios and freelancers for €99 per three months will be discontinued. In a monthly comparison, the new subscription alternative costs more than seven times as much: €249 per month.
UPDATE: The company has since already responded to the criticism on Reddit. The message appears further below.
The new RealityCapture licenses
The new licenses can now be purchased through the online shop. The other offers, such as the unrestricted monthly subscription and the perpetual license, remain unchanged. You can find an exact overview here. The following two offers are new:
- PGM (1-month license) software with restrictions: €249
- PPI (Pay Per Input) software without restrictions: credit system
New PPI—Pay-Per-Input
Alongside the large price increase and the expiration of the old promotional offer for freelancers, the company has devised another method. With “PPI,” you receive the tool free with its full range of functions, but must then have enough credits when exporting. 2,000 credits currently cost approx. 20 euros. According to official information, this can calculate 333 images (24 Mpx). If an average of around 150 images per scan object is assumed, with this new system you must therefore now budget approx. 7–10 euros per object. Anyone who wants to have this “revolutionary” pricing model explained in a positive package can also watch the video from CapturingReality.
The software alternatives
Anyone in the target group who cannot come to terms with the new prices fortunately still has a few alternatives, including promising free photogrammetry software that we looked at in one of our last issues. The favorites include:
- Agisoft Metashape—Standard version costs a one-off 179 euros
- 3DZephyr—with a free version as well as a Lite version (max. 500 images) for €149
- AliceVision Meshroom —free, open-source photogrammetry tool
You can read our test of AliceVision Meshroom from our DP issue 2018 | 06 for free here.
Update 10.09.2019:
After an outcry in the community, the company posted the following words on Reddit:
“Dear users & fans of RC,
After past days of collecting and hearing your voices on a new licensing model, we’ve decided to try to find a solution for you- hobbyists and small businesses – that will suit your needs. We can assure you that we’re listening to our community, value your work and your contribution. What we ask of you right now, is to give us few weeks to analyze the situation and find the right solution.
We might individually approach you to inquire about your preferences and needs. There is still a month period for purchase of Promo that you have before making any further purchase decision. Your questions in regards to PPI and its use will be answered anytime, do not hesitate to ask in any of our channels or via contact form.
We Thank everyone for understanding and respecting our decisions and We hope you remain faithful to our brand and values.
Your Capturing Reality Team.”
Further information: To the Capturing Reality website
