Where To Go From Here?
Here is the completed project with all of the code and resources for this OpenGL ES Pixel Shaders tutorial. You can also find its repository on GitHub.
Congratulations, you've taken a very deep dive into shaders and GPUs, like a daring math-stronaut, testing all four dimensions, as well as the limits of iOS development itself! This was quite a different and difficult tutorial, so I whole-heartedly applaud your efforts.
You should now understand how to use the immense power of the GPU, combined with clever use of math, to create interesting pixel-by-pixel renderings. You should be comfortable with GLSL functions, syntax and organization too.
There wasn't much Objective-C in this tutorial, so feel free to go back to your CPU and think of cool ways to manipulate your shaders even more!
Try adding uniform variables for touch points, or gyroscope data, or microphone input. Browser + WebGL may be more powerful, but Mobile + OpenGL ES is certainly be more interesting :]
There are many paths to explore from here on out, and here are a few suggestions:
- Want to make your shaders super performant? Check out Apple's OpenGL ES tuning tips (highly recommended for iPhone 5s).
- Want to read up on Perlin noise and complete your implementation? Please check-in with Ken himself for a quick presentation or detailed history.
- Think you need to practice the basics? Toby's got just the thing.
- Or maybe, just maybe, you think you're ready for the pros? Well then, please see the masters at work on Shadertoy and drop us a line in the comments if you make any contributions!
In general, I suggest you check out the amazing GLSL Sandbox gallery straight away.
There you can find shaders for all levels and purposes, plus the gallery is edited/curated by some of the biggest names in WebGL and OpenGL ES. They're the rockstars that inspired this tutorial and are shaping the future of 3D graphics, so a big THANKS to them. (Particularly @mrdoob, @iquilezles, @alteredq.)
If you have any questions, comments or suggestions, feel free to join the discussion below!
