An XR authoring tool is an application that provides programmers with a full toolset to develop extended reality (XR) experiences. XR authoring tools are designed to solve common problems for programmers so that they can spend more time creating the experience.
Generally, an XR authoring tool allows programmers to complete the following 3 capabilities:
- Provides a means to build the executable application, perform physics interactions, play audio, and render graphics
- Gives the programmer tools required to interact with and manipulate XR devices
- Allows programmers to create custom functionality and build new systems that produce complex interactions
Ready to learn more about XR authoring tools? Let’s dive into what an XR authoring tool is, the capabilities of XR authoring tools, and popular XR authoring tools used by programmers.
What Is An XR Authoring Tool?
An XR authoring tool is an application that provides programmers with a full toolset to develop extended reality (XR) experiences. XR authoring tools are designed to solve common problems for programmers so that they can spend more time creating the experience.
Programmers could create XR content without an XR authoring tool, but they’d need to spend time doing low-level programming to get the XR hardware setup. An XR authoring tool comes with this functionality included and provides the tools required to implement other components of the experience.
Read More: Why Is It Important To Know Who Owns Your XR Training Content?
What Are The Capabilities Of XR Authoring Tools?
Generally, an XR authoring tool allows programmers to complete the following 3 capabilities:
- Provides a means to build the executable application, perform physics interactions, play audio, and render graphics
- Gives the programmer tools required to interact with and manipulate XR devices
- Allows programmers to create custom functionality and build new systems that produce complex interactions
Almost every part of an XR authoring tool is the same across virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), and mixed reality (MR). The tools are designed to be broad to maximize the number of applications they’re compatible with.
The only real differences across training modalities come from device-specific features. For example, a VR application might make use of haptics in the controllers, while an MR experience may take advantage of eye-tracking technology.
Popular Extended Reality Authoring Tools
Unreal and Unity are the 2 main engines used to produce XR content. At Roundtable Learning, our team of programmers exclusively uses Unity to build immersive projects across various training topics, from safety and onboarding to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) and technical training.
For example, the following safety training program was developed using Unity to teach learners about getting ready on a job site. Throughout the activity, learners put on personal protective equipment (PPE) and walk through critical safety protocols.
