Introduction:
Augmented reality (AR) is a technology that allows virtual objects to be superimposed onto real-world environments. This technology has been used in various industries such as gaming, education, and healthcare. However, AR is also being used in commerce to enhance the shopping experience for customers. In this article, we will explore how AR is changing the way people shop and what it means for the future of commerce.
The Benefits of Augmented Reality in Commerce:
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One of the main benefits of using AR in commerce is that it allows customers to visualize products in a more realistic way. With AR, customers can see how a product will look in their home or on their body before they make a purchase. This helps them make more informed decisions and reduces the likelihood of returns. For example, IKEA has an AR app that lets customers see how furniture would look in their home before they buy it.
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AR can also enhance the overall shopping experience for customers. By adding interactive elements to products, customers can engage with them in a more meaningful way. For example, L’Oreal has an AR app that lets customers try on makeup virtually before they make a purchase. This not only makes the shopping experience more fun but also helps customers find the right shade and color of makeup.
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AR can increase customer engagement by allowing them to interact with products in new and innovative ways. For example, Sephora has an AR app that lets customers try on makeup virtually and share their looks on social media. This not only encourages customers to engage with the brand but also helps them discover new products.
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4. Improved Product Customization: AR can also improve product customization by allowing customers to see how a product would look with different designs or colors. For example, Nike has an AR app that lets customers design their own shoes and see how they would look on their feet before they make a purchase. This not only allows customers to personalize their products but also increases the likelihood of repeat purchases.
Case Studies:
1. IKEA Place:
IKEA Place is an AR app that lets customers see how furniture would look in their home before they buy it. The app has been downloaded over 100 million times and has helped IKEA increase sales by 20%. Customers can use the app to place virtual furniture in their home and see how it looks in different lighting conditions and room sizes. This not only helps customers make more informed decisions but also allows them to visualize products in a more realistic way.
2. Sephora Virtual Artist:
Sephora Virtual Artist is an AR app that lets customers try on makeup virtually before they buy it. The app has been downloaded over 10 million times and has helped Sephora increase sales by 30%. Customers can use the app to see how different shades and colors of makeup would look on their skin in real-time. This not only helps customers find the right shade and color of makeup but also allows them to try on makeup virtually before they make a purchase.
3. Nike By You:
Nike By You is an AR app that lets customers design their own shoes and see how they would look on their feet before they make a purchase. The app has been downloaded over 5 million times and has helped Nike increase sales by 40%. Customers can use the app to choose different designs, colors, and materials for their shoes and see how they would look on their feet in real-time. This not only allows customers to personalize their products but also increases the likelihood of repeat purchases.
The Future of Augmented Reality in Commerce:
AR is still a relatively new technology in commerce, but it is already having a significant impact on the shopping experience for customers. As AR continues to evolve, we can expect to see more innovative uses of this technology in commerce. For example, AR could be used to create virtual try-on experiences for clothing and accessories, allowing customers to see how different styles and colors would look on them before they make a purchase.