iPad Pro is now a serious option for 3D artists in 2026

In the early years of the iPad, it was just another tablet that was used by most people to watch videos, browse the web, and boost productivity. Since then, it has evolved into a powerful workstation for digital artists, with Procreate dominating, but it is only more recently that the iPad has become a viable option for 3D artists.

This is evidenced by ZBrush for iPad launching in 2024, but also by an update that saw ZBrush for iPad integrate photogrammetry into its workflow. As a result, the tablet’s viability as a professional 3D art tool is stronger than ever. This development, coupled with existing advancements, positions the iPad as a serious contender in the professional 3D workflow. (Read our 'What is photogrammetry?' explainer for more.)

Photogrammetry is the process of creating 3D models from 2D images and has been a game-changer in various industries, from game development to cultural heritage preservation. Traditionally, this required dedicated software on powerful desktop machines, but bringing this capability directly to the iPad with ZBrush not only democratises access but also streamlines the workflow.

Getting Started with ZBrush Desktop - Retopology brush - Basic functionality - YouTube

Watch On

It is now possible for artists to capture real-world objects or environments on location with their iPad's camera and then immediately process those images into a 3D model within the same device, ready for sculpting and detailing in ZBrush. This immediate feedback loop and portability are unparalleled.

In 2026, I expect to see rapid adoption of this technology by character artists in particular, with the ability to scan bodies and faces. With a beginning-to-end workflow now available on an iPad, the whole process has never been so seamless. The app will not only produce a mesh from the point cloud but also apply textures from the photos, too. It couldn't be easier.

Beyond photogrammetry, the iPad range offers an impressive set of hardware specifications that increasingly provide the raw processing power necessary for more demanding 3D tasks. Apps like Nomad Sculpt, Procreate, and Shapr3D have already demonstrated the iPad's ability to handle complex modelling, sculpting, and rendering with remarkable fluidity.

We’re also seeing an increase in creative apps for the iPad, with solutions for every stage of the 3D pipeline, from concept art to texturing and rendering. Connectivity with cloud services and desktop machines further integrates the iPad into existing professional workflows, allowing for seamless transitions between devices.

The convergence of powerful hardware, optimised software, and now integrated photogrammetry marks a pivotal moment. The iPad is no longer just a sketching tool or a secondary display; it’s a powerful tool that empowers artists to work on the go. This development is another step in the direction of redefining 3D workflows, and a key reason why the iPad Pro in 2026 is primed to be every 3D artist's new favourite creative platform.