SceneKit

SceneKit is a high-level 3D graphics framework developed by Apple for macOS, iOS and tvOS. It provides a scene graph API to create and render 3D scenes with built-in support for animation, physics, lighting, and particle effects. Scenes are composed of nodes in a hierarchy; each node can hold geometry, a transform, lights, cameras, or constraints. Geometries are defined by SCNGeometry and colored or textured with SCNMaterial objects.

Rendering is performed by an SCNView (or SCNRenderer) that presents an SCNScene. The scene can be illuminated by cameras (SCNCamera) and lights (SCNLight). Animations can be driven with SCNAction for common motions, or with Core Animation (CAAnimation) for keyframes or complex timelines. The framework includes an integrated physics engine with SCNPhysicsBody, SCNPhysicsShape and SCNPhysicsWorld to support rigid-body dynamics, collisions, and joints.

SceneKit also provides particle systems via SCNParticleSystem to create effects such as fire, smoke, or sparks. Scenes can be imported from common formats such as DAE and OBJ and can be saved in the SceneKit-specific SCN format for fast loading. The framework is designed to work with ARKit for augmented reality experiences and with Metal for rendering on Apple devices.

Common uses include 3D games, interactive visualizations, and 3D user interfaces. SceneKit emphasizes ease of use while providing enough features to build a wide range of 3D applications on Apple platforms.