OpenUSD v26.03 Introduces Gaussian Splat Support
The Alliance for OpenUSD has released version 26.03, a major update that brings integrated Gaussian splat support to the OpenUSD format.
The release adds a new schema family named UsdVolParticleField. This includes UsdVolParticleField3DGaussianSplat, a schema for representing three-dimensional data using Gaussian splats within the OpenUSD framework.
Gaussian splats are a technique for representing three-dimensional scenes, often compared to pointillism in painting in a volumetric context. The method does not rely on traditional polygon-based geometry and is used for capturing real-world environments and assets. Compared with photogrammetry techniques, Gaussian splats can model optical effects, such as view-dependent surface appearance, and render fine details, including hair and vegetation.
The update also includes a renderer for visualising Gaussian splats. This renderer is available within usdview, a lightweight application that provides tools for inspecting and debugging USD data. A script is also included to convert PLY files containing Gaussian splat data to USD.
The release includes features meant to support the adoption of Gaussian splats in production, enabling studios and companies to integrate this technique into existing 3D workflows and pipelines.
Gaussian splats were first introduced in the 1990s. Interest in the technique has increased since 2023, following work by INRIA’s GraphDeco team.
Research on Gaussian splats continues. Studios have adopted the technique in production, including use in projects such as Superman and Jurassic World Rebirth. Companies specialising in real-world capture and three-dimensional scanning also offer Gaussian splat-based services.
Development efforts in the field include work on compression, since file size remains a limitation, as well as research into online streaming and related areas.
OpenUSD v26.03 firmly establishes native support for Gauss splats, allowing their use throughout the format.
