What is arkit?

ARKit is a software framework created by Apple that lets developers add Augmented Reality (AR) features to iPhone and iPad apps. It combines the device’s camera, motion sensors, and powerful graphics to overlay digital objects onto the real world you see through the screen.

Let's break it down

  • Motion tracking: ARKit reads data from the phone’s accelerometer, gyroscope, and camera to understand how the device moves in space.
  • Scene understanding: It detects flat surfaces like tables or floors, and can recognize walls, ceilings, and even people.
  • Light estimation: The framework measures the lighting in the environment so virtual objects look like they belong there.
  • Rendering support: Works with Apple’s graphics engines (SceneKit, RealityKit, Unity, Unreal) to draw 3D models in real time.
  • Anchors: Points in the real world where virtual content is attached, keeping it stable as you move.

Why does it matter?

ARKit makes it possible for millions of iOS users to experience AR without needing extra hardware. It opens new ways to learn, shop, play games, and solve problems by blending digital information with the physical world, turning a phone into a powerful interactive tool.

Where is it used?

  • Retail apps like IKEA Place that let you preview furniture in your home.
  • Gaming titles such as “Pokémon GO” style experiences and “AR Dragon”.
  • Education tools that project 3D models of planets, anatomy, or historical artifacts.
  • Measurement apps that turn the phone into a virtual ruler or tape measure.
  • Professional uses in architecture, interior design, and medical training.

Good things about it

  • Easy to start: Comes with ready‑made libraries and sample code for Swift developers.
  • High performance: Optimized for Apple’s hardware, delivering smooth, low‑latency AR.
  • Integrated ecosystem: Works seamlessly with other Apple frameworks like CoreML and Vision.
  • Rich features: Includes people occlusion, motion capture, and collaborative sessions for multi‑user AR.
  • Large user base: Access to the huge iPhone/iPad market without extra devices.

Not-so-good things

  • iOS‑only: Only works on Apple devices, limiting reach to Android users.
  • Hardware constraints: Advanced features require newer iPhones/iPads with A12 Bionic chips or later.
  • Learning curve for 3D: Beginners may need to understand basic 3D concepts and graphics pipelines.
  • Battery drain: Continuous camera and sensor use can quickly deplete battery life.
  • Privacy concerns: Apps that constantly scan the environment must handle user data responsibly.