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Apple unveils augmented reality development framework ARKit for iOS devices

Only works on iPhone 6S and up

Apple unveils augmented reality development framework ARKit for iOS devices

Apple has unveiled its new augmented reality development framework as part of its upcoming iOS 11 release called ARKit.

The ARKit uses "Visual Inertial Odometry" to track the world, and fuses this camera sensor data with CoreMotion data. The data works together to accurately detect how a device moves in the environment without any calibration.

ARKit can also detect horizontal planes, such as table tops and floors, and use these to determine how to place objects in a room. It also features lighting detection to better understand how much lighting to apply to objects.

A whole new world

The AR technology will only work on the A9 processor and above, which means only the iPhone 6S and above will be able to leverage ARKit. More information and full documentation on the framework is available on Apple's website.

Apple announced its ARKit as part of its WWDC keynote speech on June 5th 2017. It also revealed an overhauled App Store, which will feature more editorial content and a new homepage for games on the store.

Alongside this reveal, developer ustwo revealed and launched the sequel to its popular puzzle game Monument Valley. Monument Valley 2 is available on iOS for $4.99.


Editor

Ric is the Editor of PocketGamer.biz, having started out as a Staff Writer on the site back in 2015. He received an honourable mention in both the MCV and Develop 30 Under 30 lists in 2016 and refuses to let anyone forget about it.