Building the Future: How the AR+IQ SDK Enables the Next Generation of Spatial Applications
Introduction
AR+IQ SDK » https://isparx.group/work/ariq
The evolution of digital experiences is entering a new phase. We are moving beyond screens and static interfaces into environments where the world itself becomes the medium. At the forefront of this shift is AR+IQ, a platform by iSPARX™ that fuses Augmented Reality (AR), Artificial Intelligence (AI), and geospatial computing. The platform is designed to turn physical locations into interactive, intelligent spaces. Central to this system is the AR+IQ SDK – a software development kit that opens the door for developers, educators, creatives, and cultural organisations to co-create with technology.
This article explores what an SDK is, how AR+IQ's SDK works, why it matters, and how it presents a rare opportunity for Unity developers. We will also illustrate the potential through real-world examples and explain why this SDK represents a transformative shift, not just a toolset.
What Is an SDK and Why It Matters
An SDK (Software Development Kit) is a set of software tools, libraries, documentation, and code samples that allow developers to build applications on a specific platform. In simple terms, an SDK gives you everything you need to build your own tools, features, and apps without starting from scratch.
In the context of AR+IQ, the SDK is built in Unity and acts as the foundational layer for all immersive experiences on the platform. Developers can use it to:
Build AR apps that work across mobile, tablet, and AR glasses
Access AI features such as intelligent agents and adaptive dialogue
Use geospatial anchors and mapping tools for location-aware content
Plug into a modular system that supports different use cases (culture, education, retail, events)
The result is an SDK that lowers the barrier to entry while expanding the creative and technical possibilities for immersive media.
How the AR+IQ SDK Works
The SDK is structured within AR+IQ's broader modular architecture, which includes three layers:
1. Foundation Layer
Unity SDK Core: Cross-platform AR development using Unity, AR Foundation, and XR Interaction Toolkit.
Cloud Infrastructure: AWS and Azure support for real-time data, user profiles, and media hosting.
AI Framework: Multi-model architecture (GPT-4o compatible) for personalised responses, conversational agents, and real-time behaviour adaptation.
Authentication + Analytics: Integrated user login, session tracking, and telemetric feedback.
2. Category Modules
These are plug-and-play toolkits for specific use cases:
Culture Module: Embed stories, objects, and audio-visual assets linked to place and time.
Retail Module: Add AR product previews, loyalty systems, and recommendation engines.
Event Module: Design for ticketing, crowd flow, pop-up interactions, and analytics.
Fitness Module: Track motion, guide exercise, and provide AR-based progress feedback.
3. Implementation Layer
Partner CMS: No-code content management for regional or thematic deployments.
Deployment Templates: Templates for common scenarios, reducing setup time.
API Connectors: Integration with platforms like Mapbox, Shopify, Stripe, and OpenAI.
Together, these layers allow developers and content creators to build immersive applications that are responsive, ethical, and sustainable.
“Experiencia AR VIP,” an Augmented Reality (AR) experience that celebrated the 20th Anniversary of the Premios Billboard Music Awards.
Use Cases in Action
1. Cultural Heritage: Ruatoki Project
In partnership with Tūhoe artist Tāme Iti, iSPARX™ created an immersive cultural experience in Ruatoki, a rural community in Aotearoa. Using the AR+IQ SDK, the project enabled tamariki and visitors to walk through a local landmark while experiencing visual and oral histories.
Location-anchored narratives used LiDAR and GPS to trigger content
3D animations of ancestral stories were visualised on-site
AI agents acted as guides, adapting their tone and language to user behaviour
2. Rewards Finder: BP Case Study
iSPARX™ developed an AR app for BP that allows drivers to scan their environment and locate nearby rewards and offers using geospatial AR overlays. Users see floating BP logos in their field of view, guiding them toward nearby store promotions or services. The experience was optimised for mobile AR and built on Unity, with features including:
Real-time proximity-based reward discovery
Gamified animations encouraging user interaction
Visual guidance to nearby fuel stations and participating vendors
This case reflects the potential for AR+IQ’s Retail and Event modules to support loyalty programmes, real-time deals, and location-based user engagement across transport, travel, and service sectors.
3. Entertainment Marketing: Billboard Case Study
iSPARX™ designed, developed and integrated “Experiencia AR VIP,” an Augmented Reality (AR) experience that celebrated the 20th Anniversary of the Premios Billboard Music Awards. As part of a campaign promoting audience engagement, Billboard Magazine partnered with iSPARX™ creative studio to launch an AR-enhanced broadcast. This interactive let fans scan and unlock exclusive content during the broadcast:
Augmented 3D collectible animations
Embedded links to stream new music or access ticket sales
Shareable social media clips of personalised AR experiences
With AR+IQ, similar activations can be deployed using the Culture or Events module. Street-level posters, murals, or digital signage can be transformed into immersive gateways, deepening fan interaction and creating measurable engagement for artists, labels, and event partners.
Why We’re Hiring Unity Developers Now
The AR+IQ SDK is nearing public release. We are now building out advanced features, templates, and integrations – and we need Unity developers to help shape it.
We are looking for developers with experience in:
Unity (2021+)
C# scripting
AR Foundation / XR Interaction Toolkit
SDK and modular design patterns
Networking, cloud services (AWS, Firebase)
What You Get
Equity in the product: Join early, share in the success
Co-design environment: Work closely with artists, educators, cultural leaders
Path to Unity Asset Store: Build something that will reach developers worldwide
Why This Matters
The spatial computing market is growing fast. Apple Vision Pro, Meta Quest, and Google’s ARCore updates point to an ecosystem in need of high-quality tools. The AR+IQ SDK answers this call with a focused, ethical, and extensible system.
This is not just a job. It’s a shared build towards a platform that could change how people learn, shop, tell stories, and move through space.
Transformative, Not Just Disruptive
We often hear about "disruption" in tech. AR+IQ goes further. It’s a transformative platform innovation. Instead of displacing old systems, it builds a new ecosystem where physical and digital blend respectfully and intelligently.
Like the iPhone before it, AR+IQ redefines the interface itself. The interface is no longer a screen – it is the space around you.
Summary
The AR+IQ SDK makes it possible for creators, educators, developers, and cultural organisations to build immersive, ethical, and responsive AR experiences. With its modular architecture, cross-sector support, and built-in AI tools, it is one of the most accessible and powerful spatial computing toolkits in development today.
We are now seeking Unity developers to join the next phase of development. Equity is on offer, and the opportunity is real. Together, we can build a platform that empowers people to experience the world – and their stories – in powerful new ways.
To express interest or learn more, visit www.isparx.group or contact our team directly.
The future is spatial. Let’s build it together.