Choice determines in-store availability, support checkout and AR-free journey. Here's how to decide based on the task and audience.
Direct answer
In ARCore, an AR Required app can only be installed on supported devices and requires Google Play Services for AR. An AR Optional app remains available for more devices and activates the immersive experience only when the device supports the feature. The choice must follow the core value of the product: if the task exists without AR, the optional mode extends the scope and requires a really useful fallback.
Required protects a proposition inseparable from AR
When spatial positioning is the task itself, blocking incompatible devices avoids promising a product that may not work.
Optional expands distribution with two journeys
Catalog, instruction or purchase can continue in 2D, while compatible devices receive AR visualization. Both routes need equivalent quality in purpose.
Support must be consulted at run time
Compatibility may be unknown or may depend on installing and updating services. Interface needs to explain wait, error and alternative.
Compatible does not mean capable of everything
Depth, Geospatial, camera and other resources have their own matrices. Detect each capability before presenting the corresponding CTA.
Nexus Reading
Map main task, required scope, minimum resource and fallback. Decide Required or Optional before paid media to avoid buying traffic for devices without a valid journey.
FAQ
Does AR Optional work without ARCore?
The non-immersive part can work; the AR experience should only be offered after confirming support and availability.
AR Required appears for any device in the store?
No. Distribution is limited to compatible devices as per Google Play rules.
Does a compatible device support all features?
No. Specific features require their own checking and may vary by model.
Essential guides to delve deeper into the decision
This editorial analysis was produced by Nexus from the official sources below, consulted on October 18, 2026. The text is original and interprets practical implications for companies.
- Google for Developers — Enable ARCore: Required and Optional classification, availability checks, installation and configuration.
- Google for Developers — ARCore supported devices: criteria, certified models and specific capabilities per device.
Date reported by main source: official documentation consulted on October 18, 2026; technical analysis.