Introducing new APIs to improve augmented reality development with ARCore

Google has announced updates to its augmented reality platform ARCore and the 3D rendering library Sceneform, aimed at enhancing app performance and developer flexibility. Key improvements include algorithm enhancements for reduced memory and CPU usage, and a new API in Sceneform that supports runtime glTF model loading, eliminating the need for pre-conversion to SFB format. Additionally, the release of the Sceneform UX Library's source code allows developers to customize AR elements such as plane detection and object transformation, while a new ARCore API assigns unique IDs to point cloud dots, aiding in the identification of stable structures across frames. ARCore's compatibility has also expanded to include more devices, notably the Acer Chromebook Tab 10, broadening the reach of AR experiences. More information and resources are available on Google’s developer website and their GitHub projects.