Augmented reality is currently one of the most important technological fields, as this technology, if used correctly, can improve people's lives. Most leading tech companies have started to focus on this promising area, with prominent companies like Apple, which developed the LiDAR sensor in its latest iPhones, and Google, which approached the technology from a purely software perspective. Google contributes to this field through its augmented reality platform, ARCore, which is the focus of this discussion. We will also take a look at the components of this technology and its significance.
**Building Augmented Reality Applications with Google’s ARCore**
Google’s ARCore is also known as 'Google Play Services for AR.' It consists of a set of development tools that application developers can use to create applications integrated with this technology. ARCore was launched in 2018 and has since reached a large number of Android phones from various manufacturers. Google’s augmented reality platform works on both flagship and mid-range phones. ARCore does not require specialized sensors to function; it primarily relies on the smartphone's cameras and the sensors present in all phones, such as motion, proximity, and acceleration sensors.
Additionally, ARCore relies on a strong software foundation. One of its features is a technology known as SLAM, which measures changes in the environment by identifying distinctive features of objects in the image seen by the phone's camera. By relying on factors such as the location, position, and orientation of each element, developers can build numerous visual elements that the technology can recognize. This technology can also identify lighting levels, the distances between elements, and more. Of course, it is more complex than that, but this is a simplified description.
**Uses of ARCore**
Google's augmented reality technology is available on a large number of Android phones, even though Google manually reviews each device to ensure compatibility with ARCore. You can view a list of supported devices here. Google’s augmented reality technology is significant due to the features and properties it offers without the need for additional hardware modifications. If your device is supported, the application is pre-installed.
Its usefulness is highlighted in various applications, including InkHunter, which allows users to display images and designs realistically. For instance, the eBay platform enables users to view packaging and shipping boxes and choose among them. Similarly, the ColorSnap application lets you see your walls painted in a specific color of your choice, while the GeoGebra application allows you to view and simulate elements related to mathematics and algebra.
