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New SONY ISS AS-DT1 SDK Accelerates Robotics Development with ROS2 Support
Sony Image Sensing Solutions’ commitment to continuous improvement is reflected in the launch of a new software developer kit and firmware for the AS-DT1, making it easier to integrate the LiDAR depth sensor into robotic applications.
The upgrade will support better coordination between the different sensors used in autonomous systems, helping developers get more from their robotic applications.
One key addition is a new ROS2 driver. ROS2 is a widely used software framework for robotics development, providing a common environment in which developers can bring together the different components of a robotic system.
By providing a driver specifically for the AS-DT1, Sony is giving developers a ready-made starting point for working with the sensor in ROS2-based projects, reducing the development work required to get up and running.
The update also improves how IMU data is synchronised with other sensors in a robotic system. Accurate timing matters because robots typically rely on data from multiple sources, such as LiDAR, cameras, and motion sensors. Each needs to work together with ultra-precision. The new timestamp functionality enables more accurate data alignment. For systems developers, that is particularly important for complex robotic applications such as simultaneous localisation and mapping (SLAM).
The V1.01 upgrade also includes several operational stability improvements, giving
Supporting advanced robotic applications
The SDK update supports growing adoption of the AS-DT1 LiDAR depth sensor, which has only been available since spring of 2026. The sensor delivers sub-centimetre accuracy at 40-meter range in a compact 29mm cubic form factor weighing under 50 grams, and is finding application across a broad range of industrial use-cases.
One potential application is ground-based robots used in factories for tasks such as automated material transport and collecting spare parts across distributed warehouses. The AS-DT1 can support capabilities such as collision avoidance, navigation, object detection and terrain mapping, helping robots operate safely and efficiently in industrial settings.
SLAM is a particularly interesting area of innovation. Here, LiDAR sensors can accurately detect the environment in 3D, helping a robot map its surroundings while determining its own position within them. This can enable autonomous robots to navigate complex industrial environments such as factory floors.
“The AS-DT1 has only been on the market for a relatively short time, and is well suited to advanced applications such as SLAM,” says Arnaud Destruels, European Marketing/Marcom Manager for Image Sensing Solutions Europe. “Already, we are taking feedback from users and improving the product accordingly. The SDK update will enhance SLAM performance and shows our commitment to the continuous improvement of the AS-DT1 platform.”
