How Apple’s ARKit makes Pokémon GO come to life on the iPhone

Pokémon GO will get a special ‘AR + mode’, which makes the game use Apple’s ARKit platform. This makes the virtual monsters appear ‘hyper realistic’ in the real world.

Pokémon GO ARKit update now available

Pokémon GO was their first real introduction to augmented reality for many iPhone owners. It is no surprise that developer Niantic chooses to support ARKit. Thanks to ARKit, Pokémon GO’s AR mode is taken to a new level.

How Apple’s ARKit makes Pokémon GO come to life on the iPhone

Although the game has always had an augmented reality mode, it didn’t mean much. Using your iPhone’s camera, the game made Pokémon float in your living room or garden. Because of this, Niantic wanted to create the illusion that the monsters were really in front of you. With Pokémon GO AR +, this dream comes a big step closer. ARKit is a lot better and more advanced than the old mode.

By using ARKit’s algorithms and technology, the Pokémon will now appear as if they are actually on the ground, and they will also remain credible in the image when you move yourself. For example, a Pikachu sitting on a lawn gets bigger when you walk towards it, or you can walk around it.

New exclusive ar features

Not only does that look credible, it also enables a number of new functions. For example, Pokémon will run away if you get too close. On a new meter you can see exactly how nervous the monster is. If you are not careful enough, the creature will try to hide. It is then up to you to tap on bushes to find him or her again.

Pokémon GO AR + is available exclusively for iPhones and iPads and works with iPhone 6S or later. This is because ARKit is only available from the 6S. The new feature is rolling out gradually, so you may have to wait a little longer to see Charizard walking in your backyard.

Download Pokémon GO from the App Store (free)

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