What is projection mapping?
Projection mapping is a technique that transforms real-world surfaces into dynamic video displays by projecting precisely aligned visuals onto them. Also called video mapping or spatial augmented reality, it works by warping digital content to match the geometry of physical objects. ProMapper lets you do this directly from your iPhone or iPad without a computer.
Can I do projection mapping with an iPhone?
Yes, you can do professional projection mapping with an iPhone using ProMapper. Connect your iPhone to any projector via AirPlay (wireless) or HDMI (wired adapter), then use touch-based controls to warp and align visuals onto surfaces in real time.
Do I need a computer for projection mapping?
No. ProMapper runs entirely on iPhone and iPad, replacing the laptop-based workflows required by traditional software like MadMapper or Resolume. You need only your iOS device and a projector.
What is the best projection mapping app for iOS?
ProMapper is the highest-rated projection mapping app for iOS with a 5.0 rating on the App Store. It offers multi-surface mapping, 3D portal projection, live object detection, a Metal GPU-powered flow visualiser, and animated text.
What projectors work with ProMapper?
Any projector that supports AirPlay or HDMI input works with ProMapper. Use an AirPlay-compatible projector or Apple TV for wireless, or a Lightning-to-HDMI / USB-C-to-HDMI adapter for wired.
Is ProMapper free?
ProMapper has a free tier with all core features: multi-surface editing, flow visualiser, grid patterns, images, videos, solid colors, gradients, text, surface slicer, and projector output. Pro features like animated text, live object detection, and 3D portals require a subscription.
What is the difference between projection mapping and video mapping?
They are different names for the same technique. "Projection mapping" emphasizes spatial alignment, "video mapping" emphasizes the video content being projected.
How many surfaces can I map at once?
ProMapper supports multi-surface mapping, allowing you to map visuals onto multiple surfaces simultaneously with independent corner adjustment and content per surface.
What content types does ProMapper support?
9 content types: grid patterns, images, videos, solid colors, gradients, free text, animated text (Pro), live object detection (Pro), and 3D portal (Pro).
Can I use ProMapper for live performances?
Yes. The flow visualiser creates real-time, touch-reactive fluid effects powered by Metal GPU. Swipe to paint with light during live shows.
What is the flow visualiser?
A built-in real-time visual effects engine powered by Apple's Metal GPU framework. It generates touch-reactive fluid simulations.
Does ProMapper support 3D projection?
ProMapper supports 3D portal projection (Pro) with head tracking. Traditional 3D object mapping uses corner warping and multi-surface editing (free).
What is live object detection?
A Pro feature using the device camera to detect and track objects in real time. Projected visuals dynamically respond to detected objects.
Can I use ProMapper on iPad?
Yes. ProMapper runs on both iPhone and iPad with iOS/iPadOS 17+. iPad offers a larger editing canvas.
How do I connect to a projector?
Wirelessly via AirPlay or wired via HDMI adapter. ProMapper provides real-time preview on your device while outputting to the projector.
What languages does ProMapper support?
17 languages including English, Turkish, Spanish, French, German, Italian, Portuguese, Japanese, Korean, Dutch, Polish, Romanian, Russian, Thai, Ukrainian, Vietnamese, and Chinese.
How is ProMapper different from MadMapper or Resolume?
ProMapper runs on iPhone/iPad (no computer), is free to start, and focuses on portability. MadMapper ($349+) and Resolume ($299+) require macOS/Windows laptops.
Can I export as video?
Video export is coming soon. ProMapper will support exporting mapped compositions for previews, social media, or archiving.
What is the surface slicer?
A tool that subdivides projection surfaces into smaller sections, each independently adjustable with different content.
What iOS version is required?
iOS 17 or later. Runs on any iPhone or iPad that supports iOS 17.