Niantic Studio keeps getting better with every update as we roll out new features and improvements. With our latest update, we’re excited to introduce the all-new UI Toolkit, giving you more control than ever when building user interfaces and 2D objects in Studio.

We're thrilled to launch Image Targets in Niantic Studio! This groundbreaking feature empowers you to build interactive augmented reality (AR) experiences triggered by physical images—without extensive coding. Whether you're a solo developer or part of an agency, this update streamlines the process of crafting immersive AR projects that seamlessly blend with the real world.

We're always adding new tools to Niantic Studio to help you build more engaging and complex WebXR experiences and 3D web games. Today, we're rolling out Niantic Maps for Web and Spaces, two features that make creating location-based experiences and multi-level gameplay easier than ever.

We’re excited to announce the launch of two powerful new features—backend proxies and backend functions—as the first of our Backend Services in Niantic Studio. These tools bring new capabilities to Niantic Studio, equipping developers to handle backend logic and integrate external services directly into their WebAR and web games. Integrating Backend Services is  a key milestone in expanding the flexibility and power of Niantic Studio, opening the door to more complex, secure, and dynamic AR applications.

Backend functions: Enabling secure and sophisticated web game logic 
Backend functions allow you to write server-side logic that integrates seamlessly with client-side code. This unlocks new possibilities for adding advanced, secure game mechanics to WebXR applications, such as anti-cheat to ensure fair play. 

In our Hangman-inspired sample project, backend functions store the words and the game logic on the backend, while the client handles and tracks player stats like current progress on the word and letters already guessed. With each request to the server, these states are securely stored and updated in real time, demonstrating how backend functions can manage core game components and maintain data integrity between the client and the server. This server-side processing means anti-cheat systems can be implemented, preventing players from tampering with the game data stored locally in their browser. 

We're excited to announce that Niantic VPS for Web is now fully integrated into Niantic Studio, giving developers a powerful new way to build, test, and deploy location-based WebAR experiences with unmatched precision. This update combines the power of the Niantic Visual Positioning System (VPS) with Niantic Studio’s intuitive visual interface, making creating WebAR content that seamlessly interacts with the digital world easier than ever. 

As we continue in the Niantic Studio beta, we want to make it easier for developers to build innovative WebXR and 3D web experiences. That’s why we’re excited to introduce five new sample projects designed to help you jump-start your next creation! Whether you’re experimenting with splats, building a fun face filter, or integrating external APIs, these projects are great starting points for anyone eager to explore what’s possible with Niantic Studio. Use these sample projects as a starting point, then clone or remix them to make them entirely your own! 

In addition to cloning these sample projects, you can easily take elements from each one—whether it’s a component, custom shader, or script—and incorporate them into their own experiences. By copying and editing the provided components, you can quickly build out unique interactions and bring your own ideas to life in Niantic Studio. Feel free to mix and match, customize, and experiment to create something truly your own.

Apple Vision Pro is not only a tool for developers to deliver unparalleled spatial experiences, but it is also changing the way developers create these immersive journeys. Developers can now immerse themselves in AR and use the infinite screens of visionOS to not only bring their ideas to life but also to iterate and multitask, setting a new standard for the future of development. Coupled with 8th Wall’s Cloud Editor, this integration enables creators to construct compelling real-world WebAR experiences from within the very fabric of augmented reality itself. It’s a transformative approach, blending creation and experience into a seamless workflow that opens up new realms of productivity and innovation for developers.

As we close the curtains on the last 8th Wall Developer Challenge of the year,  we first want to extend our heartfelt thanks to every participant who joined us on this festive journey. The enthusiasm and skill displayed in each submission went beyond our expectations, making this challenge not just a competition, but a celebration of the incredible potential within our community. 

In the dynamic realm of immersive experiences, we are delighted to present the winners of the 8th Wall x Hope for Haiti Challenge—an extraordinary exploration that demonstrates what’s possible when WebAR is used for the greater good. This exceptional challenge is not just a competition; it's a celebration of collaboration and innovation, uniting developers in a collective effort to make a positive impact.

Just launched your WebAR experience? Congratulations! Releasing your first WebAR experience is a significant milestone and testament to your expertise in WebAR. But before you pop the champagne, let’s make sure your project doesn’t just exist but reaches a wide audience by making sure your featured project page really shines. 

Here’s a few tips and tricks for optimizing your featured project page: 

1. Choose a captivating cover image: 
Your cover image isn’t just a task on your way to pressing publish; it’s the first impression of your project. Opt for a design that encapsulates the core of your project while still piquing curiosity. Like a movie trailer, it should give the audience an idea of what they’ll experience without giving everything away. And keep in mind, this image could be featured on 8th Wall’s homepage, social media, share cards, and even in email campaigns so choose wisely! 


2. Craft a concise project title: 
The right title is concise yet descriptive. Aim to provide a snapshot of the experience in under 60 characters. A succinct title is more memorable and can immediately convey the idea of your project to potential viewers. Focus on what users will experience in the project and how they will interact with the experience. For example, consider highlighting in your title or subtitle: