Mobile AR: ARKit vs. ARCore in 2024 – The Ultimate Showdown
Mobile augmented reality has evolved dramatically, with Apple’s ARKit and Google’s ARCore pushing the boundaries of what smartphones can do. Here’s a comprehensive comparison of the two leading mobile AR platforms:
1. Tracking Capabilities
| Feature | ARKit 6 (iOS) | ARCore (Android) |
|---|---|---|
| Motion Tracking | VIO + LiDAR (Pro models) | VIO + Depth API |
| Face Tracking | 52-point mesh (TrueDepth cameras) | 46-point mesh (select Android devices) |
| Object Recognition | 3D object scanning (USDZ support) | Augmented Images API |
| Environment Probes | LiDAR-assisted lighting estimation | AI-based lighting estimation |
2. 2024 Feature Updates
ARKit 6 (iOS 18):
- Improved hand occlusion with neural engine processing
- RoomPlan API enhancements for faster room mapping
- Collaborative sessions with ultra-low latency
ARCore (2024):
- Semantic segmentation for better object detection
- Cross-device anchors (Android-to-iOS sharing)
- Dynamic occlusion without depth sensors
3. Performance Benchmarks
| Metric | iPhone 15 Pro (ARKit) | Pixel 8 Pro (ARCore) |
|---|---|---|
| Tracking latency | 8ms | 12ms |
| Mesh generation speed | 250k polygons/sec | 180k polygons/sec |
| Simultaneous anchors | 1,000+ | 800+ |
4. Hardware Optimization
ARKit Advantages:
- Dedicated Neural Engine (16 TOPS in A17 Pro)
- LiDAR scanner on Pro models (0.5m-5m range)
- Ultra Wideband for precise positioning
ARCore Advantages:
- Broader device compatibility (3,000+ Android models)
- Google Tensor AI acceleration
- Wider adoption in emerging markets
5. Developer Ecosystem
| Aspect | ARKit | ARCore |
|---|---|---|
| Primary language | Swift/SwiftUI | Kotlin/Java |
| Cross-platform tools | RealityKit/Reality Composer | Sceneform (deprecated) |
| 3D format support | USDZ (Pixar collaboration) | GLTF 2.0 |
| Cloud services | Apple CloudKit Anchors | Google Cloud Anchors |
6. Killer Applications
ARKit Dominates In:
- Retail AR (IKEA Place, Amazon AR View)
- Professional tools (Adobe Aero, Shapr3D)
- Social media filters (Snapchat, Instagram)
ARCore Leads In:
- Navigation (Google Maps Live View)
- Gaming (Pokémon GO, Minecraft Earth)
- WebAR experiences (8th Wall integration)
7. Future Roadmap
ARKit 2025 Predictions:
- Neural rendering for photorealistic AR
- Apple Glasses integration
- Spatial audio with head tracking
ARCore 2025 Predictions:
- On-device Gemini Nano AI integration
- Wear OS smartwatch AR support
- Improved WebXR compatibility
Pro Tip for Developers:
For maximum reach, consider using Unity’s AR Foundation which abstracts both platforms, allowing single-codebase deployment to iOS and Android. The 2024.1 update adds support for ARKit 6 and ARCore’s latest features.
Market Reality Check:
While ARKit offers superior performance on premium devices, ARCore’s wider device compatibility makes it the choice for mass-market applications. The gap narrows as mid-range Android phones adopt better AR-optimized chipsets.
This comparison shows both platforms pushing mobile AR forward, with Apple focusing on premium experiences and Google prioritizing accessibility. The winner depends on your target audience and use case.