Microsoft Copilot 3D turns your 2D images into 3D models for free – how to try

ZDNET’s key takeaways

• Copilot 3D will turn your 2D images into 3D models.
• The tool is freely available to anyone, though you do need a Microsoft account.
• Microsoft suggests using an image with a single subject, even lighting, and a plain background.

Need a quick way to devise a cool 3D image but don’t have the right software? Microsoft Copilot can help. Unveiled on Monday, a new tool known as Copilot 3D will turn a regular 2D image into a full 3D model, no experience or separate 3D software required.

Available globally through Copilot Labs, Copilot 3D is free to anyone. No paid subscription is needed, though you will have to sign in with a personal Microsoft account to use the feature. The tool will work on any major mobile browser, but Microsoft advises you to use the website on a desktop PC.

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“Copilot 3D is an AI-powered tool exclusive to Copilot Labs that lets users turn a single image into a fully rendered 3D model — no prior experience needed,” Microsoft said in its announcement. “It’s designed to make 3D creation fast, accessible, and intuitive. Whether you’re exploring ideas, testing a concept, or guiding hands-on learning, Copilot 3D supports imaginative experimentation without the complexity of traditional 3D software.”

The 2D images you use must be ones that you own or have the rights to use. Copilot 3D supports PNG and JPG files less than 10MB. The resulting 3D model is created in a GLB format, which is compatible with most 3D viewers, design tools, and game engines. Of course, you can view the image in Copilot 3D. You can also open it in Microsoft Paint 3D, which still works even though it was deprecated in 2024.

How to try Copilot 3D

To take Copilot 3D for a spin, browse to the Copilot 3D website and sign in with your Microsoft account. To get some inspiration, you can view the existing 3D models generated by other people. Otherwise, click the Upload image button to use one of your own images. Choose your image and then click Create.

Microsoft advises you to choose an image with a single subject, even lighting, and a plain background. Your results will probably work best with a drawing or other type of artwork, but you can use a photo. I selected a photo of a turtle, which Copilot 3D turned into a 3D model. If the source image doesn’t work, you’ll be told that the content cannot be generated. In that case, you’ll have to try a different image.

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After the 3D rendering is created, you can view it from different angles by manipulating it with your mouse. If you like the result, download it to your computer in GLB format. If not, you can always recreate it.

Any generated models are saved to your My Creations page. Just click on an image to view it. From the My Creations page, you’re able to manually delete an image. Otherwise, it will automatically be removed after 28 days.