In a significant move within the Extended Reality (XR) industry, Microsoft, Qualcomm, and Magic Leap have recently announced a collaborative effort aimed at revitalizing the Mixed Reality Toolkit (MRTK). This framework, originally initiated by Microsoft, is poised to become an open-source powerhouse for AR/VR development across various platforms.
The Evolution of MRTK
Initially a Microsoft-led initiative, the Mixed Reality Toolkit (MRTK) was designed to provide developers with a set of essential components and features for expediting cross-platform XR app development, primarily within the Unity game engine. However, earlier this year, Microsoft disbanded the team responsible for MRTK, along with the AltspaceVR teams, as part of a broader workforce reduction.
Despite this setback, MRTK has now transitioned into an open-source project. Microsoft, along with partners Qualcomm and Magic Leap, is establishing an independent organization on GitHub. Their collective vision is to transform MRTK into a “true multi-platform toolkit” that fosters greater third-party collaboration.
Magic Leap Joins the Fray
Magic Leap, a prominent player in the XR industry, has taken a substantial role in this initiative. Joining Microsoft as equal stakeholders on the MRTK steering committee, Magic Leap aims to enhance the existing XR ecosystem and empower developers to create richer, more immersive experiences that transcend multiple platforms.
In a blog post, Magic Leap expressed their commitment to MRTK3, highlighting its potential to simplify the porting of MRTK3 applications from other OpenXR devices to their platform.
Wide Platform Support
MRTK3, even before this rejuvenation, already boasted extensive platform support, either in full or experimental capacities. Notable platforms included Microsoft HoloLens 2, Meta Quest, Windows Mixed Reality, SteamVR, Oculus Rift (via OpenXR), Lenovo ThinkReality A3, and Windows Traditional desktop. According to the committee overseeing MRTK’s development, additional devices are on the horizon, with one of them likely being the eagerly anticipated Magic Leap 2 AR headset.
A Promising Timeline
For developers eagerly awaiting the enhanced MRTK3, Microsoft has shared some exciting news. MRTK3 is on track to reach general availability during the second week of September 2023. This eagerly anticipated release is set to provide developers with a robust and versatile toolkit for XR development.
Exploring MRTK3
For those interested in delving deeper into MRTK3, Microsoft has established the MRTK3 hub. This hub offers comprehensive support information, tutorials, and more, making it a valuable resource for both newcomers and experienced XR developers alike.
The revival of the Mixed Reality Toolkit (MRTK) through the collaborative efforts of Microsoft, Qualcomm, and Magic Leap marks a pivotal moment in the XR industry. This partnership promises to breathe new life into MRTK, offering developers a versatile, cross-platform toolkit for creating immersive XR experiences. With MRTK3’s extensive platform support and a slated release date in September 2023, the XR development landscape is poised for exciting advancements that will benefit both developers and users alike.