World tracking estimates a device's position and orientation relative to its surroundings, allowing digital content to remain associated with a location in the environment.
Tracking movement through a room
A system may combine camera observations with motion sensors to estimate how the device moves. It continually refines that estimate. This creates a spatial reference in which virtual content can be positioned.
Plane detection is a related capability
Finding a floor or table can help the user choose where to place an object, but plane detection is not the definition of world tracking. A system may track movement while supporting different levels of surface or depth understanding.
An art example
A virtual sculpture can be placed beside a physical plinth so a visitor can walk around it. An image-tracked animation, by contrast, is positioned relative to a prepared artwork. Neither method is automatically better; the intended encounter determines which reference is useful.
What can go wrong?
Weak visual detail, rapid movement or poor lighting can cause drift or tracking loss. An anchor can organise placement, but it does not guarantee that an object will return to the same place after the session ends. Persistence needs explicit support and testing.
Related concepts and further reading
Choosing an AR platform for art
Explore related 3D and spatial concepts
Continue with Jitter (AR Tracking) for a closer look at this part of the experience.