Not so long ago, a clear distinction was made between reality – real life – and our online existence in cyberspace. That boundary is blurring more and more. Simply because people are specifically looking for technology that makes their everyday lives more fun and easier. Augmented Reality is the next big step in this regard.
Get a head start with the new reality!
AR: the new reality
According to Gartner, AR will reach the ‘plateau of productivity’ on the Gartner Hype Cycle for emerging technologies within 5 to 10 years. However, this does not mean that AR will remain stuck in the phase of pure entertainment technology until then. On the contrary: within the business market, we see plenty of opportunities for Augmented Reality. Companies that jump on board now have the opportunity to gain a real competitive edge. The first business applications of Augmented Reality have now proven their success. For example, as a marketing tool.
Retailers are frontrunners when it comes to AR. This is logical, as the need to differentiate themselves from the competition is particularly great for them. Consumers are becoming increasingly less susceptible to traditional marketing methods. They shop wherever and whenever they want and are highly selective in the content they consume.
AR as a marketing tool
AR has the power to bring print, products, and shop windows to life, and even create virtual stores.
A great example is the Net-A-Porter window display. This online fashion retailer has developed Augmented Reality storefronts in Paris, New York, London, Munich, and Sydney to promote the new Karl Lagerfeld collection. It looks like a normal storefront, but via the special app, fashionistas can watch videos of the catwalk, view extra product information, 360-degree images of the collection, and see prices. With, of course, the option to buy the products directly with a single click.
A unique and rich ‘shopping experience’ that enhances the customer experience and expands reach.
AR can also help customers make a suitable choice.
According to research by IBM, over 20% of visitors to physical stores search online for additional information during their visit. Retailers can perfectly cater to this customer need with AR.
Customers view a shelf on their phone screen and see additional information, usage advice, or customer reviews for each product.
In addition, AR enables customers to get a good idea of a product before purchasing it. Think of the IKEA app, which allows customers to see how a piece of furniture looks in their own home. But this principle also works with, for example, AR fitting rooms or interactive mirrors.
Vivid visualizations significantly reduce the number of returns.
In short: AR is definitely something for marketers with clients in the retail sector to keep an eye on!
AR in a custom solution
Augmented Reality offers many possibilities. A custom app can align AR closely with the customer journey, products and existing business systems.
We are happy to advise you on a suitable technical and content approach.