The wait for iOS 11 is almost over and its arrival will bring about the introduction of ARKit; a new framework that allows app developers to easily create augmented reality (AR) for the iPhone and iPad. The release of the newest iOS upgrade will be some time in Autumn, meaning app developers will have to wait just a little longer to get their hands on it.

It works by adding digital objects and information into the environment around you by using Visual Inertial Odometry (VIO) which tracks what is going on in the real world. Alongside VIO, CoreMotion data is used and these work together to allow the device to sense how it is moving in a room without needing calibration.

The ARKit uses the camera view on iPhone and iPad to analyse the environment to find horizontal planes in the room such a table or a floor, allowing it to place virtual items on top of them. It can even sense how well lit the room is and adjust the lighting on the virtual item appropriately. 

Whilst there are existing apps which already use AR such as Snapchat or Pokemon Go, ARKit allows a wider range of AR apps to exist and makes it easier to create. 

Snapchat uses augmented reality in their filters which keeps the virtual glasses, ears, face changes attached the face while on the screen. (Little team photo!)

Many people view AR as the future, as it’s under constant development. Frank Gillett, the Principle Analyst at research form Forrester, said: “If you think of it in the very long run, I think we’ll come to see it as natural that we just point our gadget to something and are able to extract a lot of insight.” 

The continuous advancements may mean that AR could be within emails or social media in the near future. In fact Loup Ventures analyst, Gene Munster, thinks AR will eventually replace the smart phone. 

However, the Xcode will also need to be updated in order for developers to create AR apps with the ARKit alongside the new iOS 11. Other new features of the next iOS include indoor maps, personalised control centres, one-thumb texting, screen multitasking and a lot more. 

You can find more information about Apple’s iOS 11 on their website by clicking here.

This AR news comes after Apple revealed their next desktop operating system, Mac OS High Sierra, will have support for virtual reality. It would seem online reality is a huge investment for big brands right now. Curious to see how virtual reality is already being used? Check it out here:MORE VR

The one-thumb texting keyboard in IOS 11. Source.