The Appaloza API kit connects to an e-commerce marketplace that allows 3D designers to sell models on a secure, cloud-based virtual store. Players who purchase models from the in-game Appaloza marketplace will then be able to edit and 3D print them directly from the web. The Appaloza marketplace will be launched on September 2nd and the full Appaloza platform and API kits will roll out later this year.
3D Pioneer Systems cloud platform will allow users to upload, store and print their own 3D model library or sell their own designs to other users. They can also 3D print free or premium models directly from the web so any copyrighted design files will stay stored in the cloud, completely protected against piracy. Because the platform has built-in editing and workflow controls the designers IP is completely protected without preventing the customer from modifying or editing those designs to suit their own needs. They can even have 3DPS print the model for them in several available materials and then ship it to them.
3DPS announced Appaloza a few months ago and they are now announcing that they will be making an API & advanced SDK toolkit available to software developers. The API kits will allow third party developers to fully integrate Appaloza 3D printing services into their own platforms. This will allow video game developers to include 3D printable in-game rewards, prizes and purchasable content without running the risk of their copyrighted models being unlawfully duplicated. So don’t be surprised if you start seeing a lot of casual video games with 3D printable items for sale.
By connecting Appaloza to your 3D printer you are removing the need for virtually any other 3D printing workflow software. The models that you purchase can be stored in the web and sent directly to your printer, completely removing the need for a memory card or any other 3D printing workflow. You can control and adjust your printer settings directly within Appaloza, and according to 3DPS most standard settings will automatically be pre-populated on almost every FDM 3D printer currently on the market.
With the recent success of the Hasbro/Shapeways partnership copyrighted intellectual property is most likely going to start working its way into the 3D printing marketplace soon, especially as the install base for 3D printers continues to rapidly expand. Copyright violations and 3D piracy have long been one of the many fears preventing larger companies from exploring digital 3D printable products, so if Appaloza works as well as advertized this type of cloud 3D printing could really shake up the entire 3D printing industry.
If you are interested in buying or selling 3D printable models, you can register to join the Appaloza marketplace and community starting on September 2nd you can register for Appaloza here. If you are a a developer who is interested in integrating 3D printable products into your platform, hold tight until full launch of the Appaloza platform later this year.
