File Extension Database

Open USD File

The Universal Scene Description (USD) is a robust framework developed by Pixar for interchange and augmenting of arbitrary 3D scenes that are production-proven and available as Open Source. USD file formats (*.usd, *.usda, *.usdc, *.usdz) are capable of efficiently encoding a scene's topology, animation, materials, and light transport. The data is saved in the form of individual layers, each one modifying the composing scene graph. This affords creative opportunities to non-destructively edit scenes, facilitating collaboration across multiple departments.

Software Supporting USD Files

There are a number of applications that offer support for USD files. This includes popular 3D software solutions like Autodesk Maya, Blender, and Katana by The Foundry. Utilizing USD in these applications allows for advanced scene assembly, layered overrides, and powerful variation support.

Using USD with Python

If you're a developer or technical artist with some Python knowledge, you can also use the USD Python API to manipulate and create USD files. There are comprehensive tutorials and documentation available on the USD documentation site. The same site also provides the Python scripts you'll need to effectively use USD and understand its layered, non-destructive workflow.

Real-time Game Engines and USD

Real-time engines such as Unreal Engine and Unity have also begun integrating support for the USD format. This is especially appealing for users who wish to use the same assets in both film and real-time applications, cementing USD's place in future pipelines.

USD File Important Information

While there are many ways to read and use USD files, it�s essential to remember to use the correct software that fully supports all features of the USD format. Working with unsupported software may result in partial data loss or even corruption of the file. Additionally, when working with multi-layer files, it's important to keep track of any changes made at different levels to avoid confusion.

How Can I Open USD File on Windows

We researched and learned that the best way to open USD file is to find a USD file in question in Windows OS File Explorer and double click on it to launch the corresponding application.
If a USD file is not opened in an application and you instead get a "Windows can't open a file" error message you should try looking for an application which can open the file in question.
If you know the application which can open USD file then run it and see if there is a File->Open main menu option in the application.
If you don't know the application which function as USD file opener then try to search online for "USD viewer", "application to open USD file" or "open USD file" queries in the search engine you like.
Install the application you found and check if it can open USD file

How Can I Open USD File on Mac OS

We recommend to find a USD file in question in Mac OS Finder and double click on it to launch the corresponding application.
If a USD file is not opened in a Mac OS application and you instead get a "There is no application set to open the file" error message you can click on "Search App Store" in the error dialog and Mac OS will show you applications compatible with USD file.
If you know the Mac OS application which can work as USD file opener you can choose the "Choose Application..." option in the error box to associate the file extension and open USD file in it.
If you don't know the application which can open USD file then try to search for "USD viewer", "application to open USD file" or "read USD file" queries in the online search engine you like.
Install the application you found and check if it can read USD file

How Can I Open USD File on Android

If you downloaded a USD file on Android device you can open it by following steps below:

In the Android apps list on your Android device find "My Files" or "File manager" app and tap to start it.
Tap on "Downloads" folder inside the app.
You should see your downloaded USD file in that folder.
Tap on the file. If Android device supports opening the file you downloaded it will open in the corresponding app.
If file does not open you can look for the corresponding app that can open the file by searching Android App Store for the "USD".
If you cannot open the file with the apps from Android App Store it is possible that the file could only be opened on desktop platforms such as Windows or Mac OS. Try searching for "USD viewer", "USD file reader" online and see if any desktop applications can open it.
It is also possible that the file you downloaded is outdated and is no longer supported.

How to Open USD File on iPhone or iPad

To open USD File on iOS device follow steps below:

We advies to open Files app on your iPhone or iPad device. You can find it by swiping down on the home screen and typing "Files" in the search bar.
Tap on the Downloads folder on the Files app home screen.
You will see all files that you recently downloaded. Tap on the USD file to view it.
If you have the right app that can open it it will automatically launch and open your file.
If you don't have the app which can open it you need to serch Apple app store for "USD". This way you can find apps which can open USD files.
If this doesn't help it is possible that your file could be opened only by the desktop application. To find an app which can open it on desktop look for "USD viewer" or "USD file" online in your favorite search engine.

Populating this website with information and maintaining it is an ongoing process. We always welcome feedback and questions that can be submitted by visiting Contact Us page. However since there are many users visiting this website and because our team is quite small we may not be able to follow up personally on every request. Thank you for your understanding.