Comparison

GlassVFX vs PicoMap

Price, ratings, monetisation and update history for both apps, side by side — with what reviewers say about each.

Head to head
About

GlassVFX

Create real-time visual effects, shaders, and interactive experiences using a node graph editor. This tool leverages Apple technologies for a seamless workflow on Mac, iPad, and iPhone, offering over 170 nodes and GPU-powered rendering without requiring any coding.

Highlights
  • Node graph editor
  • Real-time preview
  • 170+ nodes
  • GPU-powered rendering
  • Live camera input
  • Video export up to 4K
Features
Read full description

One ecosystem. One canvas. Connect everything. GlassVFX is a real-time visual effects tool for Mac, iPad, and iPhone, built entirely on Apple technologies. Create visual effects, shaders, and interactive experiences through a node graph editor with a beautiful Liquid Glass interface. Connect nodes, see results instantly. No code required. NODE-BASED WORKFLOW - 170+ nodes: math, effects, rendering, particles, geometry, camera, transforms, and more - Real-time preview — see every change as you make it TAP INTO YOUR DEVICE - Live camera feed as a texture input (front or back) - Audio input with frequency band analysis for reactive visuals - MIDI controller support with note, CC, and pitch bend - CoreML model inference GPU-POWERED - Metal rendering with real-time shader compilation - GPU particle system with gravity, drag, turbulence, and emission shapes - Video export in H.264, HEVC, ProRes 422, and ProRes 4444 up to 4K CREATE AND SHARE - 50+ sample projects to learn from and remix - Subgraphs for organizing complex graphs into reusable components - Export presets for TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube aspect ratios - Portable .subjective project format PLATFORMS - Mac: macOS 15 (Sequoia) or later. Apple Silicon recommended. - iPad: iPadOS 18 or later. - iPhone: iOS 18 or later. iPhone 12 or newer. One-time purchase. No subscription. No ads.

About

PicoMap

Transform any surface into a dynamic display using your iPhone. Easily map videos and photos onto walls, stages, or objects without a computer. Offers advanced controls for precise adjustments and creative effects.

Highlights
  • Four-corner surface mapping
  • Import videos and photos
  • Multi-layer mixing
  • Customizable masks
  • Real-time FX controls
  • Audio-reactive and MIDI control
Features
Read full description

Turn walls, stages, and objects into moving light. PicoMap is projection mapping built for iPhone. Connect a projector, drag four corners, and play your own videos and photos — no computer, no complicated desktop software. HOW IT WORKS Connect your iPhone to a projector Drag the four corners to match your surface Drop in a video or photo and play KEY FEATURES Four-corner adjustment for precise surface mapping Import videos and photos from Photos or Files Build and mix up to four layers Rectangle, circle, triangle, diamond, and custom masks Opacity, soft-edge, and real-time FX controls Kaleidoscope, pixelate, chromatic, and strobe effects Audio-reactive and MIDI control Dual-channel live mixing Freeze, Blackout, Safe Scene, and master intensity Optional downloadable CC video library Portrait-first controls designed for iPhone Japanese and English interface MADE FOR Live shows, DJs, VJs, and stage performances Shops, exhibitions, and events Installations and video art Room lighting and creative experiments Anyone trying projection mapping for the first time All you need is an iPhone, a projector, and the right cable or adapter. External output and resolution depend on your device and display setup.

Screenshots

GlassVFX3 screens
PicoMap4 screens

Verdict

The call

The clearest difference is monetization model: GlassVFX at free against PicoMap's free with in-app purchases. PicoMap's advantage is update cadence (monthly vs every 3 months) and iOS requirement (15.0 vs 17.2). On price, ads, in-app purchases and device support there is nothing between them.

Scored on Price · Rating · Positive reviews · Number of ratings · Update frequency · Ads · In-app purchases · Monetization · Best chart rank · Devices · Requires iOS

CostPrice · In-app purchases · Ads · Monetization

Both are free to download. GlassVFX sells 1 one-off in-app purchase and PicoMap sells 1 one-off in-app purchase. Whichever you choose, the download price is not the number that matters.

UpkeepUpdate frequency

GlassVFX ships an update every 3 months, PicoMap monthly. The most recent releases landed on October 2, 2026 and October 12, 2026 respectively.

Scorecard3 real differences · 7 level
GlassVFX versus PicoMap: the parameters behind the verdict, then further details
ParameterGlassVFXPicoMap
PriceFreeFree
Rating2.0 (1 ratings) — better—
Positive reviews0.0% of reviews—
Number of ratings1 — better—
Update frequencyEvery 3 monthsMonthly — better
AdsNoNo
In-app purchasesYesYes
MonetizationFree — betterFree with in-app purchases
DevicesiPhone, iPad, Mac — betteriPhone, iPod
Requires iOS17.215.0 — better
Further details — not scored
Size16 MB99 MB
Age rating4+4+
DeveloperSXP StudioCode and DESIGN inc.

In-app purchases

1 purchases

GlassVFX

One-time1
  • Subjective Pro$9.99
1 purchases

PicoMap

One-time1
  • PicoMap Full Access$2.99

Questions

Is GlassVFX free?
GlassVFX is free to download, with in-app purchases available.
Is PicoMap free?
PicoMap is free to download, with in-app purchases available.
Do GlassVFX or PicoMap have ads?
Neither GlassVFX nor PicoMap shows ads.
Which is updated more often, GlassVFX or PicoMap?
GlassVFX ships an update every 3 months, and PicoMap monthly. Most recently, GlassVFX was updated on October 2, 2026 and PicoMap on October 12, 2026.

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