Modeler 3D is a programmatic 3D modeling tool for iPad that uses Lua scripts to define parametric designs.
The App DNA
What makes this app unique?
It removes the need for manual 3D object manipulation by allowing users to define complex geometry through script-based parameters.
For iPad users seeking a programmatic, script-based approach to 3D CAD modeling.
Key features
Programmatic 3D modeling using Lua scripts for parametric design definition.
Constructive Solid Geometry operations implemented in Swift for iPad hardware.
Output of 3D designs to OBJ and STL formats for external manufacturing or rendering.
How much does it cost?
Modeler 3D is distributed as a free tool with no visible monetization or in-app purchase gates.
Velocity
Dormant developmentopaqueShow more...
Modeler 3D has been inactive for 433 days, placing it firmly in the zombie category. The last release occurred in July 2025 and consisted only of minor stability fixes. There is no evidence of ongoing development, feature expansion, or live operations support. The lack of activity over the past year suggests the project is no longer being actively maintained.
Who built it?
User Sentiment
What do users think recently?
How are ratings & reviews evolving?
Not enough recent reviews to extract reliable themes yet.
Read the full review analysisCompetition
Competitive landscape for Modeler 3D
How's the Productivity market?
Modeler 3D maintains a niche position in the Productivity category as a free, script-based CAD tool. The lack of updates for 434 days indicates a stagnant market presence compared to active CAD competitors.
The rivals identified
The Analyst's Read
Key takeaways for Modeler 3D
Where is it heading?
The programmatic CAD market on iPad is shifting toward tools with active live-ops and cloud-sync capabilities. Modeler 3D's lack of development activity leaves it exposed to platform-level deprecation, which will erode its remaining user base as iPadOS evolves.
- The 434-day update gap indicates the developer has abandoned the codebase, which will lead to eventual app failure on newer iPadOS versions.
The SWOT
- Native CSG engine written in Swift provides hardware-accelerated geometry processing
- Lua-based CAD interface remains an untapped niche for open-source hand-off
Next best moves
Sunset the project because the 434-day update gap indicates abandonment → stop user frustration with potential OS incompatibilities
The counter-intuitive read
The lack of updates is the primary feature, as it provides a stable…
Read the full takeSince the last report: The project status has shifted from a maintenance-required state to an active sunset recommendation due to the 434-day development hiatus. This change reflects a transition from monitoring for potential updates to acknowledging the codebase as abandoned.
Bottom line
Modeler 3D offers a specialized Lua-scripting workflow that remains functional for legacy users, but the 14-month development freeze signals a sunset posture that will eventually break compatibility with future iPadOS releases.
Unlock 1 critical friction, 1 market threat and the analyst’s take.
Access the full report for freeFAQ
Is Modeler 3D still being updated?
Does Modeler 3D cost money to use?
What file formats can I export from Modeler 3D?
Sources
- [1] App Store, source
Report last updated