# TheDLA

> Visualizes Diffusion Limited Aggregation for creating complex natural patterns. (iPhone/iPad app by Daishin Ueyama.)

- Source: https://appshunter.io/ios/app/thedla/id506499656 (this page in markdown: same URL + `.md`)
- Developer: [Daishin Ueyama](https://appshunter.io/developer/495395197)
- Category: Education, Photo & Video
- Price: Free
- Rating: 4.30/5 from 3 App Store ratings
- Age rating: 4+
- Requires: iOS 16.6 · 10 MB
- Languages: American English, Japanese
- Released: 2012-03-06
- Data updated: 2026-06-03
- Monetization: free
- User reviews in markdown: https://appshunter.io/ios/app/thedla/id506499656/reviews.md

## What is TheDLA?

TheDLA 

Cool Science! TheDLA gives you an essence of pattern formation mechanism in nature. Also, it makes very unique attractive images for you.

I wrote a brief description about DLA pattern and TheDLA app in following URL. Please read it!

https://sites.google.com/site/dueyama/home/thedla

“The DLA” stands for ‘The Diffusion Limited Aggregation’, and it is one of the simplest models that makes complex dendritic pattern. 

Now, we are talking about Science. You see, there are two types of particles on the field. One is the free particle that moves randomly. Another is the fixed particle that does not move. The free particle attaches to cluster of the fixed particles when it reaches around them. Such a simple pattern forming mechanism builds the attractive complex patterns and this very scientific system is applied for you to have funny hairy nose. But first of all, please check the usage. So, you will be able to enjoy not just hairy nose, but the various patterns YOU are going to create. It is quite amazing that such randomness sometimes create forms and patterns you can find only in nature. Please enjoy the patterns and think why such dendritic patterns appear. If you would like to search the web, keywords may be “DLA” and “Dendrite”.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diffusion-limited_aggregation

To start with, there is a single fixed particle at the center of the field when you start. 

Usage: 
- Double tap: Put the fixed particles at the point. The size is possible to change in the setting. 
- Single tap: Remove the fixed particle at the point. 
- 2 fingers double tap: Remove all fixed particles from the field + etc. 
- 2 fingers pan: Pan the field. 
- Long pressed pan: Draw fixed particles like a pen. 
- Long pressed pan after a tap: Eraser. 
- You can chose color to paint the branches. 
- A “g” button toggles the acceleration sensor of the device (only for the device that has the acceleration sensor). The free particles drift to the direction of the gravity. 
- Can export the image to the photo library, Twitter and Facebook. 

In addition, the face detection technology in iOS is used to put the fixed particles on eyes position in the photo. 

When you are in the Anim mode, exporting the image to the photo library make a GIF anim.

So, enjoy patterns! Enjoy science!

## Key features

- Visualize Diffusion Limited Aggregation
- Create complex dendritic patterns
- Interactive pattern generation
- Color selection for branches
- Export images to photo library, Twitter, Facebook
- GIF animation export
- Face detection for particle placement


## Frequently asked questions about TheDLA

### What is TheDLA?

TheDLA is an application that visualizes the Diffusion Limited Aggregation (DLA) model, a scientific system that creates complex dendritic patterns found in nature. It allows users to interactively generate these unique designs.

### How does TheDLA work?

The app simulates the DLA process where free particles randomly move and attach to a cluster of fixed particles. This simple mechanism results in intricate, nature-like patterns that users can create and customize.

### Can I save my creations from TheDLA?

Yes, you can export your generated patterns to your photo library, Twitter, and Facebook. If you are in Anim mode, exporting an image will create a GIF animation of your pattern.

### Does TheDLA have ads?

No, TheDLA is ad-free. It provides an uninterrupted experience for exploring and creating scientific patterns.

### What devices support TheDLA?

TheDLA is available for iPhone and iPad, making it accessible to a wide range of Apple users interested in science and art.

### What is the age rating for TheDLA?

TheDLA has an age rating of 4+, making it suitable for young learners and adults alike who are interested in scientific visualization and pattern creation.

### How often is TheDLA updated?

TheDLA was last updated on February 13, 2026, indicating ongoing development and potential for future enhancements and bug fixes.

### Can I use face detection with TheDLA?

Yes, TheDLA utilizes iOS's face detection technology. This feature allows you to place fixed particles on the positions of eyes in a photo, integrating your creations with personal images.

## Version history (last 5 releases)

### 3.0 — 2026-02-13

iOS26 support

### 2.3.6 — 2024-02-18

The latest OS version is now supported.

### 2.3.5 — 2021-10-08

iOS15 support
minor bug fix

### 2.3.4 — 2021-10-07

iOS15 support

### 2.3.3 — 2021-03-24

removed ads from app!

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## More apps by Daishin Ueyama

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All apps by Daishin Ueyama: https://appshunter.io/developer/495395197

## Related topics

[daishin ueyama](https://appshunter.io/ios/topics/daishin-ueyama)

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*Data collected daily from the US App Store and indexed by [AppsHunter](https://appshunter.io/). User reviews are verbatim App Store reviews. Ratings, prices and chart positions refresh continuously; this snapshot is from 2026-06-03.*