Introduction
Augmented reality (AR) is a technology that enhances the real world with digital elements. AR is becoming increasingly popular in various industries such as retail, healthcare, education, and manufacturing. In this article, we will discuss how businesses are using AR to improve their operations and engage with their customers.
Product Visualization
One of the most common uses for AR in business is product visualization. AR allows companies to create 3D models of their products and display them in real-time on a device. This can help customers get a better understanding of the product’s features and benefits before making a purchase. AR can also be used by manufacturers to visualize products during the design process, which can save time and money.
For example, IKEA uses AR to let customers see how furniture would look in their home before buying it. Customers can use the IKEA app to scan their room and then place virtual furniture in the space. This allows customers to visualize how the furniture would fit into their space and make more informed purchasing decisions.
Customer Engagement
AR can also be used by businesses to engage with their customers in unique ways. For example, L’Oreal uses AR to let customers try on makeup virtually. Customers can use the L’Oreal app to scan their face and then apply virtual makeup. This allows customers to see how different shades and styles of makeup would look on them before making a purchase.
Another example of customer engagement through AR is the Coca-Cola Freestyle machine. The Freestyle machine allows customers to create their own customized Coca-Cola drink by mixing different flavors and syrups. Customers can use an AR app to scan the machine and then see how their custom drink would look before making a purchase.
Employee Training
AR technology can also be used for employee training. For example, the military uses AR to train soldiers in combat situations. Soldiers can use AR headsets to simulate different scenarios and practice their skills in a safe environment. This allows soldiers to be better prepared for real-world situations.
Manufacturers can also use AR for employee training. For example, BMW uses AR to train its technicians on how to repair cars. Technicians can use an AR app to see the inner workings of the car and then follow step-by-step instructions to fix the problem. This allows technicians to be more efficient and accurate in their repairs.
Case Studies
One example of a company that is using AR for business is Sephora. Sephora uses an AR app called “Sephora Virtual Artist” to let customers try on makeup virtually. Customers can use the app to scan their face and then apply virtual makeup. This allows customers to see how different shades and styles of makeup would look on them before making a purchase.
Another example is Ikea’s AR app called “Place.” The Place app lets customers see how furniture would look in their home before buying it. Customers can use the app to scan their room and then place virtual furniture in the space. This allows customers to visualize how the furniture would fit into their space and make more informed purchasing decisions.
Conclusion
AR technology is becoming increasingly popular in business, and it has many applications. AR can be used for product visualization, customer engagement, and employee training. Companies that use AR are able to improve their operations and engage with their customers in unique ways. As AR technology continues to evolve, we can expect to see even more creative uses of AR in businesses.
FAQs
1. What is augmented reality?
Answer: Augmented reality is a technology that enhances the real world with digital elements.
2. How is augmented reality used in business?
Answer: AR can be used for product visualization, customer engagement, and employee training.
3. What are some examples of companies using AR in business?
Answer: Sephora uses an AR app called “Sephora Virtual Artist” to let customers try on makeup virtually. Ikea uses an AR app called “Place” to let customers see how furniture would look in their home before buying it. The military uses AR to train soldiers in combat situations. BMW uses AR to train its technicians on how to repair cars.