UniteAR reigns supreme for non-coders, educators, and businesses seeking robust, user-friendly AR experiences. It offers a suite of pre-designed 3D models, and crucially, does not track user data. Yet, for those proficient in JavaScript and WebGL, 8th Wall is unrivalled. Providing a potent AR platform with high-end features, it’s instrumental for impactful, commercial AR applications.

UniteAR vs 8th Wall comparison

Key Differences Between UniteAR and 8th Wall

  • Coding Skills: UniteAR requires no coding, whereas 8th Wall relies on web technologies like JavaScript, WebGL, HTML5.
  • Data Privacy: UniteAR does not track user data, information about 8th Wall’s data privacy practice is inconclusive.
  • Pricing: UniteAR has free options and a free trial, 8th Wall requires a commercial license exceeding 2000 USD/month.
  • AR Experiences: UniteAR provides over 100 predefined 3D models, 8th Wall encourages novel, immersive experiences with Sky effects, AR Code, etc.
  • User Focus: UniteAR targets educators, businesses, creators whereas 8th Wall is constructed for developers and tech-savvy individuals.
Comparison UniteAR 8th Wall
Augmented Reality Offers a powerful AR experience, over 100 3D models WebAR and computer vision stack for accessible AR
Main Features 3D models, 360-degree content, videos, animated gifs, image slideshows, AR visit websites, make calls, send emails 6-DoF Tracking, Lighting and Surface Estimation, Image Target Tracking, Lightship VPS, Face Effects
No Coding Required Custom AR experiences, Instant app creation with no code needed Requires understanding of web technologies like JavaScript, WebGL, HTML5 for creation of AR experiences
Privacy Does not track user data Not mentioned
Platform Compatibility iOS 11.1 or later, MacOS 11.0 or later. Optimized for iPhone, iPad, iPod touch, Mac with Apple M1 chip or later WebAR compatible with all smartphones, computers and AR/VR headsets
Languages Supported English, Arabic, French, Portuguese, Spanish Not mentioned
Pricing Free version, free trial available, options for in-app purchases Higher cost for commercial license exceeding 2000 USD per month
Applications Marketing, advertising, education Retail, commercial experiences for brands, education, gaming
Audience Educators, Creators, Businesses, Enterprises Developers, Brands across various sectors
Founded 2016, based in India Palo Alto, California. Acquired by Niantic in March 2022

What Is UniteAR and Who’s It For?

UniteAR is an augmented reality platform designed to create immersive and engaging experiences. Developed by iBoson Innovations and launched in 2016, this India-based company leverages the power of AR through a free app that features over 100 3D models, AR gallery, 360-degree content, videos, animated gifs, and image slideshows. Ideal for educators, content creators, and business enterprises, UniteAR offers custom AR experiences with no coding required and a SaaS platform for white-labeled AR Apps and WebAR plugins.

Colorful AR models on UniteAR platform in a tech lab

Pros of UniteAR

  • Offers over 100 3D models and an AR gallery
  • Features include 360-degree content, videos, animated gifs, image slideshows
  • No coding required to create custom AR experiences
  • Does not track user data, ensuring privacy

Cons of UniteAR

  • Limited language support, with only English, Arabic, French, Portuguese, and Spanish available
  • Optimized only for Apple devices
  • Contact information is not linked to the user identity

What Is 8th Wall and Who’s It For?

8th Wall, founded in Palo Alto, California, is a revolutionary AR developer platform aimed at making augmented reality accessible to everyone. Now under the wings of Niantic Inc., 8th Wall uses its own computer vision technology to build interactive, web-based AR (WebAR) experiences that can be accessed by over 5 billion smartphones across multiple platforms. Designed for AR developers with understanding of web technologies, 8th Wall offers cutting-edge tools such as the AR Engine and Cloud Editor, revolutionizing the development, distribution, and discovery of WebAR content.

Colorful display of 8th Wall's augmented reality technology in a workstation

Pros of 8th Wall

  • Accessible on any smartphone, no app required
  • Powered over 2,000 commercial experiences in its first year
  • Offers cutting-edge tools like AR Engine and Cloud Editor
  • New hand-tracking feature offers greater interactivity for retail, gaming, and education

Cons of 8th Wall

  • Higher cost for commercial license, exceeding 2000 USD per month
  • Relies only on webAR technology
  • Requires understanding of web technologies for creating AR experiences

UniteAR vs 8th Wall: Pricing

UniteAR maintains a free model with optional in-app purchases, while 8th Wall’s commercial license exceeds 2000 USD per month.

UniteAR

UniteAR operates on a freemium model, granting users access to the service without any upfront cost. Options for further enriched experience are obtainable via in-app purchases. It additionally offers a free trial of its diverse features, aiding users in gaining a comprehensive understanding prior to any financial commitment.

8th Wall

Unlike UniteAR, 8th Wall is not a freemium model. It comes with a hefty commercial license cost over 2000 USD per month. Its substantial price tag caters to its unique features and its extensive toolkit specifically designed for AR developers.

Decoding the Best Choice: UniteAR vs 8th Wall

In the world of augmented reality, both UniteAR and 8th Wall occupy prominent roles. But, the conundrum is about choosing the superior match. Let’s dissect this decision.

Developers with Novice Understanding of Web Technologies

UniteAR gives the edge to this group, eliminating the requirement for coding knowledge and offering a multitude of AR features. With its easy-to-use platform and intuitive interface, it is the ultimate choice for beginners looking to explore AR.

  • Interface friendly for newbies
  • Pre-loaded 3D models
  • Create custom experiences sans coding

A beginner developer exploring UniteAR's interface on a PC

WebAR Developers

For aficionados of WebAR, 8th Wall undeniably takes the router. Offering powerful tools like 8th Wall Engine and Cloud Editor, it supports developers at every step of WebAR creation and distribution.

  • Powerful SLAM system
  • Cloud-based integrated development environment
  • Streamlined source control

A developer engrossed in creating an immersive WebAR experience with 8th Wall

Large Enterprises

Consummate businesses may find greater value in 8th Wall. Its proven business value, numerous commercial experiences, and integration with WebAR technology sing volumes to big league players.

  • Demonstrated business value
  • Customization and optimization tools
  • Innovative AI-QR Code technology

A corporate executive scrutinizing the 8th Wall platform on multiple screens

AR Enthusiasts Seeking Privacy

UniteAR is the pick for this cohort, prioritizing user privacy by not tracking data. Plus, its unique experiences come with the extra garnish of a free version.

  • Privacy-centric
  • Non-tracking of user data
  • Enticing free version

An AR enthusiast enjoying the privacy-conscious UniteAR experience on multiple devices

In conclusion, UniteAR excels for beginners and privacy seekers, offering a no-coding-required, privacy-focused AR experience. However, 8th Wall lights the way for WebAR developers and large enterprises with its robust tools, successful commercial applications, and WebAR technology prowess. The choice hinges upon your specific requirements and domain expertise.

Tiffany Brise

Content writer @ Aircada, patiently awaiting a consumer AR headset that doesn’t suck.

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