Azure Spatial Anchors

Migration Guide: From Azure Spatial Anchors to MultiSet VPS SDK

This guide provides a comprehensive overview and step-by-step instructions for migrating your existing AR applications from Azure Spatial Anchors to the MultiSet VPS SDK.

Migration Prerequisites

Before you begin the migration process, ensure you have the following:

• An active MultiSet developer account.

• The latest MultiSet SDK for your development platform (Unity, iOS Native, Android Native).

• Familiarity with the MultiSet Developer Docs and core concepts like MapSet and ModelSet.

Anchor Migration Options

You have two primary options for migrating your existing Azure Spatial Anchors to MultiSet.

Option 1: Remap with the MultiSet iOS App

This option is ideal for physical spaces and locations previously anchored with Azure. You will create a new, more robust map of the environment using a LiDAR-enabled iPhone or iPad.

Steps:

1. Download the MultiSet iOS App: Install the app on a LiDAR-equipped iOS device.

2. Scan the Environment: Follow the in-app instructions to scan the area that corresponds to your previous Azure Spatial Anchor. The app will generate a 3D map of the space.

3. Create a MapSet: For larger or more complex spaces, you can create multiple scans and stitch them together into a MapSet. This can be done with or without overlapping scans, providing flexibility in how you map your environment.

4. Anchor Content: The newly created map or MapSet now serves as your anchor. You can place and persist AR content relative to this map within your application.

Option 2: Use Existing 3D Models with ModelSet

If your Azure Spatial Anchors were associated with specific real-world objects for which you have 3D models (e.g., a machine, statue, or other equipment), you can use MultiSet's ModelSet feature for a more direct migration. This is particularly useful for object-based AR experiences.

Steps:

1. Prepare Your Model: Ensure your 3D model is in a photorealistic GLB format.

2. Upload to ModelSet: Use the MultiSet developer portal to upload your GLB file and create a ModelSet. This process turns your 3D model into a trackable anchor.

3. Localize and Track: In your application, the MultiSet SDK will recognize and track the real-world object corresponding to your ModelSet, allowing you to overlay AR content.

SDK Integration

MultiSet provides comprehensive SDKs for popular development platforms.

Unity

The MultiSet Unity SDK extends Unity's AR Foundation, allowing for a mix-and-match approach with existing AR frameworks.

• Initial Setup: Integrate the MultiSet Unity SDK into your existing AR Foundation project.

• Content Re-arrangement: Depending on your import settings, you may need to re-arrange your AR content to align with the new MultiSet coordinate system.

• Localization: Choose between on-cloud and on-device localization to best suit your application's needs for performance and connectivity.

iOS and Android Native

For native mobile development, MultiSet offers dedicated SDKs.

• iOS Native: Utilize the iOS Native SDK for Swift-based development.

• Android Native: A dedicated Android Native SDK is available for Kotlin/Java-based projects.

Quest Support

MultiSet also supports the Meta Quest platform, allowing you to build immersive VR and mixed-reality experiences.

Localization Options

MultiSet offers two primary localization methods:

• On-Cloud Localization: This is the default and most powerful option, leveraging server-side processing for high accuracy and robustness in challenging conditions.

• On-Device Localization: For applications that require offline capabilities or have specific privacy constraints, on-device localization is available.

By following this guide, you can successfully migrate your AR application from Azure Spatial Anchors to the MultiSet VPS SDK, taking advantage of its advanced features for large-scale and persistent AR experiences.