We’re excited to announce the launch of two powerful new features—backend proxies and backend functions—as the first of our Backend Services in Niantic Studio. These tools bring new capabilities to Niantic Studio, equipping developers to handle backend logic and integrate external services directly into their WebAR and web games. Integrating Backend Services is  a key milestone in expanding the flexibility and power of Niantic Studio, opening the door to more complex, secure, and dynamic AR applications.

Backend functions: Enabling secure and sophisticated web game logic 
Backend functions allow you to write server-side logic that integrates seamlessly with client-side code. This unlocks new possibilities for adding advanced, secure game mechanics to WebXR applications, such as anti-cheat to ensure fair play. 

In our Hangman-inspired sample project, backend functions store the words and the game logic on the backend, while the client handles and tracks player stats like current progress on the word and letters already guessed. With each request to the server, these states are securely stored and updated in real time, demonstrating how backend functions can manage core game components and maintain data integrity between the client and the server. This server-side processing means anti-cheat systems can be implemented, preventing players from tampering with the game data stored locally in their browser. 

Without backend functions, to implement similar functionality, you would need to spin up your backend infrastructure—typically through a cloud provider like AWS, Microsoft, or Google—and manage the infrastructure setup separately from the game development. This process could take up to a week to set up and maintain. Bringing backend functionality directly into Niantic Studio allows you to streamline your workflows and save valuable time.  

Backend proxies: Secure API integration and third-party services
With backend proxies, you can securely connect your WebXR projects to third-party services and APIs, opening up a range of new possibilities. Whether it’s integrating a Weather API to adjust the game environment in real time based on current conditions or using Generative AI tools to create unique, personalized game content such as NPC dialogue or AI-generated assets, these integrations not only enhance gameplay experiences but also keep sensitive information, like API keys, secure within the system. 

Proxies allow you to safely store and manage API keys, preventing the exposure of sensitive credentials to clients. As a third-party service, this means you can offer a way to monetize WebAR by providing your clients with secure API keys they can now store in their backend proxies. 

Get started with Backend Services in Niantic Studio 
This update marks a significant leap forward for Niantic Studio, providing developers with the tools to build more interactive, secure, and seamless WebAR applications. Both backend functions and backend proxies can be implemented within modules in your workspace, allowing you to create components that can be adapted, reused, or removed as needed. This modular approach streamlines development, allowing you to build a library of backend services that can be integrated across multiple projects for maximum flexibility and efficiency. 

To start building with new Backend Services, create your own module and add a backend function or backend proxy, or clone our new Hangman-inspired sample project to see these features in action.

If you’re new to Niantic Studio, create your free account and start building today.