In an era where augmented reality (AR) is often touted as the next frontier in technology, the reality has been a rather muted response from developers and users alike. However, amid this backdrop, one startup, 8th Wall, is striving to make a significant mark. With a recent funding boost of $8 million, they intend to revolutionize how developers approach mobile AR. Let’s dive deeper into how 8th Wall aims to elevate augmented reality experiences for both creators and consumers.
Transforming the AR Landscape
When ARKit and ARCore made their debut, the anticipation was palpable. Many expected mobile apps to burst forth like fireworks, but instead, they landed with a thud. Erik Murphy-Chutorian, the founder of 8th Wall, believes the lackluster response stems from a fundamental misunderstanding among developers. Rather than leveraging the unique possibilities mobile AR offers, many merely ported existing applications into this new format.
8th Wall has taken a different approach by positioning itself as a comprehensive resource for developers eager to craft AR experiences tailored for mobile devices. The platform’s XR software tools, including a Unity plug-in, provide essential features like full-scale tracking, surface detection, lighting estimation, and camera overlays, all easily integrated into projects. These capabilities enable developers to design apps that are not only functional but also engaging and immersive.
Innovations on the Horizon
Regular updates are central to 8th Wall’s strategy as they strive to expand their offerings. Future plans include advanced backend tools aimed at enhancing cloud management, persistence measurement, and sophisticated computer vision capabilities. The expectations for mobile AR remain high, and Erik envisions a surge of inventive applications emerging by mid-2018, which could truly harness the potential of AR technology.
Raising the Bar with Funding
The recent Series A funding round, led by Norwest Venture Partners, marks a crucial step in 8th Wall’s journey. Joining their board of directors is General Partner Vab Goel, alongside participation from other significant investors like the Venture Reality Fund, Shasta Ventures, and Sparkland Capital. With a total of approximately $10.4 million raised to date, the startup plans on tripling its workforce of nine full-time employees in the coming year and a half. This surge in personnel is pivotal for maintaining pace with rapid innovations within the AR landscape.
Accessibility: A Key to Engagement
One of 8th Wall’s cornerstone missions is delivering users their first AR experience, and that begins with accessibility. While Apple has invited many iPhone users into the AR fold with devices like the iPhone 6S and later, a significant number of iPhones still lack AR tracking capabilities. This situation is even more pronounced on Android, where Google’s ARCore support is limited to a handful of devices. 8th Wall aims to bridge this gap by extending tracking support to many devices previously left behind.
While phone-based AR solutions can sometimes fall short in precision, 8th Wall argues that many applications do not require flawless tracking. In situations where perfection isn’t a necessity, their solutions provide accessibility and engagement, making it easier for developers to attract larger audiences to their apps or games.
Listening to Developers for Continued Success
According to Murphy-Chutorian, the secret to 8th Wall’s appeal lies in their commitment to listening closely to the needs of AR developers. Continuous updates based on user feedback will undoubtedly foster an environment where creators feel empowered and excited to innovate. As more developers turn their sights toward mobile-based augmented reality, 8th Wall is poised to be a key player in shaping this burgeoning ecosystem.
Conclusion: The Future of Mobile AR
The horizon gleams with potential for augmented reality, and with companies like 8th Wall at the forefront, the future looks bright. By redefining how developers approach AR and ensuring accessibility across devices, they are revolutionizing the landscape for the better. The promise of engaging mobile AR experiences is no longer just a distant dream; it is arriving sooner than we anticipated.
At fxis.ai, we believe that such advancements are crucial for the future of AI, as they enable more comprehensive and effective solutions. Our team is continually exploring new methodologies to push the envelope in artificial intelligence, ensuring that our clients benefit from the latest technological innovations.
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