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WebGPU is a new standard to give browsers direct access to low-level graphics processing units (GPUs). Developed by the World Wide Web Consortium (W3C), it is intended to improve the performance of graphics-intensive applications and games running in the browser by giving them direct access to the computer’s GPU. WebGPU is similar to a more modern version of WebGL, a standard for 3D graphics on the web, but unlike WebGL, which is built on the OpenGL standard, WebGPU is developed from the ground up to take advantage of modern GPU architectures. It is a cross-platform standard supported by several browsers, including Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox and Apple Safari.

What is WebGPU

WebGPU is designed to provide a more efficient and powerful method for working with 3D graphics in browsers. It will enable developers to create more complex and interactive 3D experiences, such as high-quality games, simulations and visualization tools, that can run directly in the browser without the need for add-ons or additional software.

One of the key features of WebGPU is support for hardware-accelerated ray tracing, a technique used to create highly realistic and accurate 3D images. Ray tracing enables advanced lighting and shading effects that can be used to create more realistic 3D graphics, and it is widely used in the film and VFX industry.

WebGPU allows GPU parallelism, enabling more efficient and faster 3D rendering. This makes it possible to create more complex 3D scenes with more detailed models, lights and animations, which can be rendered in real time. The WebGPU standard is still under development and is currently not supported by all browsers. But with the increasing interest in 3D content, it is likely that support for WebGPU will continue to grow in the future.

Technology development

As the technology continues to develop, the use of 3D online is expected to grow in several different areas. One of the most promising areas is in e-commerce, where 3D models and interactive 3D experiences can be used to improve product visualization and enhance the online shopping experience. For example, retailers can use 3D models of their products to allow customers to see the products from all angles and even customize the products to their liking.

Another area where 3D is expected to play a significant role is in education and training. 3D simulations and virtual environments can be used to create interactive and engaging learning experiences that can be accessed online. This can be particularly useful in fields such as medicine and engineering, where students can use 3D simulations to practice procedures and work with virtual equipment.

In architecture and design, 3D models and interactive experiences can be used to present designs and plans in a more engaging and realistic way. This can be particularly useful for architects and designers working with clients remotely, as it allows them to share their designs in a more interactive and engaging form.

In the entertainment industry, 3D online will continue to be used to create interactive and engaging experiences, such as games and virtual reality experiences. With advances in web GPUs, web-based 3D games and experiences will become more complex and realistic, increasing the user’s level of immersion.

As the technology continues to develop, the use of 3D online is expected to grow in several different areas such as e-commerce, education and training, architecture and design, and entertainment. Advances in web GPUs will enable the creation of more complex and realistic 3D experiences, improving user engagement and immersion.

WebGPU is the new standard for low-level, high-performance GPU access in browsers. It is designed to provide a more efficient and powerful way of working with 3D graphics in browsers. It will allow developers to create more complex and interactive 3D experiences that can run directly in the browser without the need for plug-ins or additional software. With the increasing interest in 3D content, support for WebGPU will continue to grow in the future.

Want to learn more about how to display your products photo-realistically in 3D online? Contact Animech for a free consultation!