Understanding software development kits (SDKs)

SDKs (Software Development Kits) sound like one of those scary tech terms, but they’re really not. The easiest way to think about them? They’re like a ready-made kit for developers. Instead of sitting there writing every single piece of code from scratch, they get a bunch of useful tools like sample codes and guides, all in one place.

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If you’ve ever used an AR filter to try on lipstick or shopped on an app that just works smoothly without freezing up, there’s probably an SDK behind it. They save time, cut down on errors, and make sure the app actually works on different phones. Basically, without SDKs, building modern apps would be a total headache.

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How do SDKs work 

An SDK is basically a package of tools that makes life a lot simpler. Instead of starting from the start every single time, they just grab the toolkit and there’s already some code, examples, and tools ready to go. It gets rid of all the boring setup stuff and lets them spend their time on the parts that actually matter.

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When they set it up, those pieces slot right into their project. The libraries that come with the SDK usually cover the basics; things like showing a proper interface, connecting to the internet, or storing data. Because all that groundwork is done, developers don’t have to keep rebuilding the same functions every single time. They can actually focus on what makes their app different, instead of wasting hours on the same background tasks.

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And honestly, the guides that come with SDKs are what make them usable. A well-written SDK doesn’t just dump a bunch of files on you. It explains everything step-by-step. Developers don’t spend their time guessing or digging through forums. They get to spend more time building the fun, creative parts of their app while the SDK quietly handles the boring bits.

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An SDK often comes with powerful testing and debugging suites. These built-in tools let developers test out their code in protected environments, simulate real-world user scenarios, and fix bugs before deployment. This aspect minimizes errors and ensures the finished product behaves as expected across all supported devices or systems.

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SDKs often come with special APIs that let apps use stuff on your device like the camera, sensors, or login features without the developer having to make all that from scratch.

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Developers don’t have to spend endless time figuring everything out on their own. With SDKs, apps can be built faster, remain more secure, and function seamlessly across different devices. SDKs handle the essential but time-consuming tasks, allowing developers to focus on the features that truly make the app engaging and unique.

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Components of SDKs

1. Libraries

Libraries are prewritten pieces of code designed to handle common tasks, such as adding buttons to the screen, managing data, or connecting to the internet. Instead of rewriting the same code repeatedly, developers can simply use these libraries. This speeds up app development and reduces the chances of errors.

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2. APIs (application programming interfaces)

APIs allow apps to “talk” with other software or a device so they can perform useful functions. They act like instructions or checklists for accessing features such as the camera, sensors, or login systems without building them from scratch. In short, APIs let apps offer advanced functionality with less effort.

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3. Documentation

Documentation consists of guides, examples, and tutorials that explain how to use the SDK effectively. Good documentation saves developers from guesswork and errors by providing clear instructions, making the development process faster and more reliable.

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4. Integrated development environment (IDE)

An IDE is the primary workspace for coding that comes with the SDK. It usually includes a code editor, error-checking tools, debugging features, and options to run the app—all in one place. This makes writing, testing, and fixing code much easier.

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5. Testing tools and compiler

Testing tools help developers ensure their code works correctly. Debuggers allow them to check the code line by line for errors, while compilers translate the code into a format that computers can run. Together, these tools help prevent crashes and prepare the app for real-world use.

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6. Sample code

SDKs often provide sample code to demonstrate functionality. Developers can review these examples, copy them, or adapt them for their own projects. This shortens the learning curve and helps them get apps running quickly.

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Common use cases of SDKs

One of the most common uses of SDKs is in mobile app development. Both iOS and Android offer SDKs that provide everything developers need to build, test, and launch apps. These SDKs allow access to cameras, GPS, sensors, and pre-made interface elements, making it much faster and easier to create interactive apps.

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SDKs are widely used in web development as well. They include tools that simplify building websites or web applications. Developers can easily add features like logins, databases, or analytics without going through complex processes.

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Cloud providers such as AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud offer SDKs that streamline working with storage, databases, and other services. With these SDKs, developers can build cloud-based applications faster, using familiar programming languages, while avoiding complicated setup steps.

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In the IoT space, SDKs help developers connect software to devices and sensors. They provide the tools and instructions needed for apps to collect data, control devices, and maintain security. This enables real-time communication and smooth operation across connected systems.

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SDKs significantly contribute to game development by including 3D graphics engines, physics systems, audio controls, and AI tools. They make it easier to build immersive, high-performance games. Developers also benefit from game-specific sample code and debugging tools, which accelerate development and improve gameplay quality.

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Virtual try-on SDKs are increasingly popular in industries like fashion, beauty, and eyewear. These SDKs use augmented reality and computer vision to let customers try products such as sunglasses, makeup, or clothing through an app or website. With features like 3D modeling, face and body tracking, and real-time rendering, they deliver realistic, personalized experiences that bridge the gap between in-store and online shopping.

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Best virtual try-on SDKs

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1. GlamAR

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GlamAR is an AR SDK designed for beauty, fashion, and jewelry brands, enabling customers to virtually try on products. Instead of visiting a store, shoppers can see how makeup, rings, necklaces, or earrings look on them through an app or website. Powered by AI-driven facial tracking and 3D rendering, GlamAR delivers a realistic and interactive experience. It works across mobile, web, and even in-store devices, helping brands boost engagement, reduce returns, and increase sales.

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The SDK supports a wide range of virtual try-ons. For beauty, users can try lipstick, eyeshadow, or foundation, while for jewelry they can preview rings, necklaces, and earrings. Customers can rotate items, zoom in, and even select specific fingers to try rings on. Multiple modes are available, such as live camera, model previews, or photo uploads, making the experience flexible and user-friendly.

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GlamAR also offers solid developer tools and customizable features, earning the trust of leading brands. Regular updates ensure compatibility with new technologies and seamless performance across devices and platforms. In short, GlamAR simplifies the implementation of virtual try-ons while delivering fun, engaging shopping experiences.

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Features:

• Ease of application: Jewelry and makeup try-ons are smooth, fast, and require no team contact or additional fees to access.

• Try-on product rage: Supports try-ons for makeup, jewelry, nails, hair, watches, luggage, home decor, skin analysis, and even AR ads.

• Accuracy of virtual experience: Provides lifelike try-ons with high-quality AR rendering for a realistic look.

• 360 view: Customers can rotate products in 3D for a complete viewing experience.

• Modes: Offers three try-on modes - live camera, model previews, or photo uploads.

• Adjustment: Users can zoom in, zoom out, reposition, or fine-tune products for better evaluation.

• Split screen: Allows side-by-side comparisons for easier decision-making.

• Sharing: Enables users to capture screenshots of their virtual try-ons to save or share on social media. 

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2. Perfect Corp.

Perfect Corp is the engine behind some of the world’s top beauty and fashion brands like Estée Lauder, MAC, and NARS. With its AI and AR magic, shoppers can try on makeup, jewelry, glasses, or even clothes right from their phone or laptop and the results look incredibly real. Its facial tracking is smooth, its AI is sharp, and the whole experience feels natural whether you’re online, on mobile, or even in-store.

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What makes Perfect Corp so popular is how much it can do. It’s not just for lipstick or eyeshadow, it also works for nail art, hair color, sunglasses, jewelry, and even apparel. For brands, Perfect Corp is super easy to set up. It connects super easily with websites, social campaigns, and retail platforms, so companies can roll out virtual try-on wherever their customers are shopping. It actually helps drive sales, reduces the number of returns, and keeps shoppers excited with experiences that feel personal and interactive.

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The best part is that Perfect Corp keeps switching things up. They’ve added tools like real-time fit checks, ultra-stable face tracking, and even AI outfit swaps that make the whole experience feel next-level. And because it comes with flexible APIs and ready-to-use modules, brands don’t need a massive 3D team or heavy tech setup to use it since it’s quick to launch and easy to scale. It’s fast to deploy, easy to scale, and delivers the kind of try-before-you-buy experience customers now expect.

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Features:

• Real-time face tracking: Perfect Corp’s tech delivers really smooth, jitter-free face tracking. It maps out facial movements precisely (even wide angles or big expressions), which makes putting on makeup or accessories feel natural.

• Realistic makeup looks: You get hyper-realistic try-ons for things like foundation, lips, eyeshadow, blush, brows, eyeliner, lashes, etc., with colors that adapt to lighting and skin tones so they look natural.

• Advanced jewelry & accessory try-ons: Perfect Corp has done some really polished stuff with accessories (earrings, watches, rings).

• Omnichannel: Works across different platforms (web, mobile, in-store mirrors, social media). Brands don’t need to only focus on one channel, they can roll this out in multiple places.

• Less tech overhead: You don’t always need huge 3D modeling teams or months of setup. Perfect Corp offers ready-made modules so brands can get virtual try-ons going faster and with less difficulty.

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3. MirrAR

MirrAR is built to make shopping for jewelry, fashion, watches, eyewear, and even beauty products a lot more exciting. Instead of simply scrolling through static images, shoppers can see items come to life on their face, hands, or body in real time. With precise face and hand tracking, rings, necklaces, and makeup appear as if they are truly being worn rather than just overlaid. What’s more, the experience runs smoothly across all devices.

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The visuals MirrAR delivers are incredibly detailed, especially with intricate jewelry pieces or makeup shades. Customers get so many add on features like rotate, zoom, and really explore items before they buy, which helps build confidence in their choices. This isn’t just about cool tech, it’s about reducing returns and creating a significantly better shopping journey.

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What makes MirrAR stand out is how flexible it is. Brands don’t need heavy tech resources to set it up, and the platform keeps rolling out fresh features. One example is MirrAR Live, which mixes video calls with virtual try-ons so a sales associate can guide a shopper in real time while they’re trying on products virtually.

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Features:

• See it from every angle: MirrAR gives you a mirror-like view of jewelry, watches, makeup, or eyewear. You can spin, tilt, and look at products just like you would in real life.

• Moves with you: With advanced face and hand tracking, rings rotate naturally as your hand turns and earrings stay in place when you tilt your head. The result feels seamless and realistic, rather than artificial.

• Try-ons: From necklaces and lipsticks to sunglasses and watches, products appear on you in real time. Try on as many looks as you like, no store visit needed.

• Snap & share: Shoppers can capture their virtual style and share it with friends or post online, making the experience fun while generating free brand visibility.

• Insights for retailers: MirrAR provides valuable data on the products customers try most and what sparks their interest, helping retailers shape smarter strategies.

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4. Banuba 

Banuba is one of the most major names in the AR industry. This platform creates realistic 3D models for users to provide them a lifelike shopping experience. Banuba enables e-commerce platforms to allow users to try on a product virtually before purchasing.

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Banuba makes virtual try-ons super easy and fun, covering everything from makeup to hair color so there’s something for everyone. Instead of guessing what a product will look like, shoppers can actually try it out online before they buy.

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And of course, sharing makes it even better. With just a tap, you can send your virtual try-on shots to friends or post them on social media to get instant feedback. For shoppers, it’s fun and interactive. For brands, it’s powerful marketing because customers end up showing off products to their own networks without even realizing it.

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Features:

• Easy accessibility: Banuba is compatible with all devices that have a camera and an internet connection, making it easily accessible to a large number of people.

• Brands: It is trusted by major brands like Gucci, Schwarzkopf, Samsung, and many more.

• Multilingual customer care: This platform offers a 24/7 available multilingual customer care service to address complaints at any given time across the world.

• Range of product try-ons: Banuba offers a wide range of product try-ons, such as makeup, jewelry, hats, contact lenses, and so much more.

• AR rendering quality: The virtual try-ons are very realistic.

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5. Modiface

ModiFace, now part of the L’Oréal group, is widely recognized as one of the pioneers of augmented reality in the beauty world. It powers the virtual try-on experiences of big names like Sephora, Estée Lauder, Maybelline, and NYX, letting shoppers test everything from foundation shades to hair colors and nail polishes, all in real time. Whether you’re using a live video feed or an uploaded selfie, ModiFace makes the results look strikingly realistic across web, mobile apps (iOS/Android), and even in-store smart mirrors.

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What makes ModiFace different from the others is its accuracy in tracking. The SDK is designed to feel as natural as possible. It tracks your face, hands, and even hair with incredible accuracy. Fewer customers end up returning products, shoppers spend more time exploring online, and the simple, user-friendly setup makes it easy to suggest the right products for every individual.

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The platform is constantly being refined to stay ahead. The updates make the experience faster, more inclusive, and more real. It works very easily across different skin tones, hair types, and even lighting setups, so no matter who’s trying it or where, they get results that feel natural and true-to-life.

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Features:

• Virtual makeup try-on: Clients can test different lipsticks, foundations, or eye looks right on their face, almost like trying them in front of a mirror but through the screen.

• AI skin analysis: The system scans the skin closely and points out things like dryness, fine lines, or uneven tone, then suggests care routines that actually match the person’s needs.

• Product comparison: Instead of guessing, people can switch between products side by side and instantly see which shade or formula suits them better.

• Before & after preview: A quick toggle shows how the skin or makeup will look after a product or treatment.

• Works across devices: Whether it’s on a phone, tablet, web browser, or even a smart mirror in a store, the setup runs smoothly without needing extra effort.

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6. DeepAR

DeepAR is a powerful toolkit in the AR industry designed for brands and developers who want polished, high-performance try-on experiences. From beauty and eyewear to jewelry, shoes, and accessories, it brings products to life with ultra-realistic 3D visuals and smooth face tracking. With DeepAR, shoppers don’t just imagine how something will look.

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They can actually see it in real time on their phone, computer, or even in a browser. That makes shopping feel more exciting and interactive, while also giving retailers a reliable way to boost sales and cut back on unnecessary returns. The real strength of DeepAR is how adaptable it is. Whether it’s virtual makeup, fun filters, eyewear, watches, or fashion accessories, the SDK handles it all. Developers also love how easy it is to work with.

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What truly makes deepAR one of the best choices is the fact that it works with accuracy while paying attention to the ease of it all. Brands can now use filters and effects in a way that not only makes customers happy but also gives them useful, real-time tools to make decisions more easily. It just makes it easy for spas to use AR without dealing with all the complicated tech stuff.

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Features:

• Advanced facial tracking: DeepAR keeps up with facial movements and expressions so treatments or products look natural and move with the client, giving a preview that feels real.

• Customizable AR effects: From showing how a facial might look to adding calming visuals, spas can easily adjust filters and overlays to match their brand and what their clients want.

• Skin analysis: DeepAR lets clients effortlessly see what’s going on with their skin and shows how treatments could help right away.

• Interactive menus and tutorials: Guests can scan a brochure or product to unlock videos and step-by-step guides, turning regular menus into something more engaging and helpful.

• Cross-platform compatibility: DeepAR runs smoothly on phones, tablets, and other devices.

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7. PulpoAR

PulpoAR SDK is like giving brands a magic touch to bring things to life. Instead of only looking at products on a screen, you get to actually play with it. Try on accessories, peek at 3D models, and dive into fun, interactive stories. It’s all about making the whole thing feel easy and cool, so people actually want to try it.

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What’s wonderful is that PulpoAR doesn’t make things complicated for the people building it. Developers can skip the headache and just create something that really wows customers. It’s like opening up a playground where creativity can run wild, but without any rules slowing things down.

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And the best bit? Everything responds instantly to you. Move your head, wave your hand, and PulpoAR moves right along with you like it’s really happening. Plus, it works on your phone, tablet, or computer. So wherever you are, the fun can keep going.

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Features:

• Makeup try-on: You can choose your favorite makeup looks and see how they’d look on you by using a selfie or uploading a photo. They can also choose to try the makeup on different models or snap a quick picture to see how it looks instantly.

• Customized AR makeup: This platform gives you easy-to-use tools to play with your makeup, whether it’s adjusting how bold it looks or comparing different styles to find your perfect match. Apart from specific products, they can choose complete makeup looks.

• Genuine color matching: Forget guessing about colors, there’s a variety of shades and textures to pick from, and the tech makes sure what you see is exactly what you’ll get. No surprises, just perfect matches.

• Works everywhere: Whether you’re scrolling on your phone, relaxing with a tablet, or sitting at your computer, this tool slots right into any online store so you can try on any product anytime. Shopping’s never been this easy or fun.

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8. OrboAI

OrboAI has embraced AI technologies to provide a personalized experience for customers of D2C, retail, or e-commerce businesses. Orbo AI blends technology and creativity to bring brands closer to their consumers with an impactful user experience. It suggests makeup, hair color, foundation shades, skin types, and skin care solutions.

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It is a web-based virtual try-on and needs no separate mobile application for the VTO experience. I have tried makeup in real time through my device’s camera. After choosing the product, it automatically applied the shade on my face and recommended similar products. 

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Through the smart magic mirror, it can conduct a thorough analysis of customers' skin and come up with the results of their past choices, provide personalized guidance, and prioritize their preferences.

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Features: 

• Compatible solution: You can merge OrboAI’s virtual try-on technologies across multiple devices. It is available on smart mirrors, digital kiosks, websites, tablets, and mobile applications.

• Foundation try-on: OrboAI is highly accurate in analyzing consumers’ skin tones. 

• Makeup try-on: Consumers can try makeup in real-time using their devices' cameras. They can choose the product or shade. Also, they have an option to apply a preset look. OrboAI’s technology can apply the shade or look automatically and allow them to view how the products look on them. 

• Omnichannel deployment: Orbo AI is omnichannel-ready and easily integrates across websites, mobile apps, digital kiosks, and smart mirrors. This consequently increases your reach and widens your customer base.

• Accurate results: OrboAI’s technology works on six skin types and ethnicities. It ensures high accuracy in shade detection and real-time application, providing consumers with a jitter‑free and authentic virtual makeup experience.

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9. Kivisense 

Kivisense is making online shopping feel way more real, especially for shoes and clothes. Instead of just looking at product photos and guessing, you can actually see how a pair of sneakers or a jacket would look on you just from the comfort of your home. And the best part? You don’t need to download an app, everything works straight from your browser on your phone. It feels quick, easy, and a lot closer to trying things on in a store.

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It’s not just about footwear either. Kivisense works with sneakers, sandals, watches, and clothing, giving people the chance to experiment with different looks before they buy. For brands, it’s a win too. It plugs into websites, apps, or even smart mirrors in stores, so shoppers get the same experience everywhere.

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That’s why big names like Gucci, Dior, and Valentino already use it. For them, uploading new products or customizing the try-on experience is pretty straightforward, and they can also see what customers are interacting with most. At the end of the day, shoppers get a fun and reliable way to try things out online, and brands get happier customers and stronger sales.

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Features:

• Try-on product range: Completely changing the game for online shopping by allowing users to virtually test them in real time.

• Social media: Allows users to capture their virtual experience through pictures and videos and instantly share them on social media, which is beneficial for brand presence.

• Quick and secure file transfers: Kivisense provides fast transfers and data security.

• Device compatibility: It functions optimally across all devices with a camera and internet connection, such as mobiles, laptops, tabs, etc.

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10. KiXR

The KiXR platform imitates a real-time visual experience for its users, enabling them to elevate their brand’s online shopping environment by allowing customers to try on products in real time before making any purchasing commitment.

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It includes multiple product categories, including jewelry, shoes, watches, and more. It designs accurate 3D models with the help of a few high-definition images. 

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KiXR also ensures the consumers' privacy by not saving any data after the session ends. It also allows users to make video calls with up to six people at a time and get advice from them in real time for better decision-making. 

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Features:

• Visual try-on experience: It allows users to try on products and test them before buying.

• Features offered: Users can zoom in, zoom out, and adjust the product to enhance their understanding. 

• Multiple try-ons offered: KiXR offers a variety of product try-ons in addition to bracelets, including other categories like eyewear and shoes.

• Privacy: KiXR never stores user data. This solution is PII compliant, including GDPR.

• Works everywhere: This SDK works on all devices so you can play around with products anytime. 

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How I evaluated these SDKs

I was looking for software that could truly bring products to life, offering sharp and accurate skin analysis, highly realistic virtual makeup try-ons, and personalized beauty advice that feels both genuine and helpful. To find the right fit, I tested each SDK by integrating it into mirrors and apps, checking how natural and consistent the results looked and felt.

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I ran tests using a wide variety of photos under different lighting conditions to see whether the SDKs delivered consistent performance. This made it clear which ones provided reliable analysis and smooth effects, regardless of the setup. While some SDKs produced inconsistent results, others impressed me with accurate insights and flawless makeup overlays.

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The best-performing SDKs stood out by detecting skin concerns such as dryness, blemishes, and texture while delivering smooth, realistic makeup applications that moved naturally with the user.

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Privacy was another key factor for me. I trusted and preferred SDKs that respected user data while still enabling smart mirrors to deliver quick, intelligent insights without compromising security.

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In the end, the SDKs that truly impressed me were easy to integrate, worked smoothly across devices, and provided clear, actionable feedback. They helped brands create personalized and delightful experiences. What mattered most was technology that added genuine value, built trust, and made beauty solutions feel effortless, accessible, and welcoming to all users.

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Conclusion

When you think about it, SDKs aren’t some intimidating tech term. They’re simply packages of tools that make life easier for developers and better for users. Instead of building everything from scratch, developers get shortcuts, prewritten code, and clear guides that make the process faster and far less complicated. That’s why your favorite apps load quickly, look polished, and continue to roll out exciting new features.

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Most people don’t realize it, but SDKs quietly power many of the apps we use every day. They enable AR try-ons when you’re testing new sunglasses online, make social media filters smooth and fun, and help games run seamlessly without unnecessary complexity. SDKs rarely get the spotlight, but they’re the backbone that keeps modern apps reliable, efficient, and engaging. In short: without SDKs, today’s apps wouldn’t exist in the way we know them.