Google has tried to tap into the augmented reality world several times. Augmented reality, commonly known as AR, when used properly, can potentially be life-changing technology, but no tech company has yet managed to master it. Apple has taken the approach of using dedicated hardware, such as the LiDAR scanner included in iPads and iPhones, while other companies, like Google, are pulling everything off through software only. We’re definitely getting closer to perfect AR, however, and Google is one of the companies leading the pack, with their augmented reality SDK and technology, which is dubbed ‘ARCore’.
But what’s ARCore all about? What phones are supported? Most importantly, should you even care about ARCore at all?
Yes, I do have to say that the iPhone’s LiDAR sensor makes for pretty perfect AR imagery. Under the right conditions, Android can manage very similar performance, but generally the capturing can take a bit longer and require more patience. I used my iPhone to capture a car in 3D including the interior, but I still have to get that right on the Android phone.
Still, AR can be a lot of fun, and the linked article does give some examples of its use right at the end.