RichGraphics
A tour of the technologies you need to know to render rich graphics on Apple platforms.
Modules
SwiftUI
Powerful animations from the framework you already know. Start your graphics journey here.
UIKit
A whole new dimension of rich graphics and physics, opened up by UIKit.
CoreGraphics
When you need to draw, start with PencilKit. Drop down to CoreGraphics when that isn't enough.
SceneKit
3D graphics built in Swift. Open up a whole spatial world inside your app.
CoreImage
Wait, you can stack filters on the iPhone camera like a DSLR with interchangeable lenses?
Quick Reference
Not sure which framework to pick? Check the Framework Comparison — purpose, difficulty, and trade-offs side by side.
| Goal | Recommended framework |
|---|---|
| UI transitions / motion | SwiftUI Animation |
| Drawing / painting | CoreGraphics + PencilKit |
| 2D games / physics | SpriteKit |
| 3D visualization | SceneKit |
| Custom GPU rendering | Metal |
| Image processing | Core Image |
| Particles / effects | CAEmitterLayer |
| Physics-based UI | UIKit Dynamics |