Augmented reality can provide a new level of user engagement, the benefits are clear and have been proven with integration into many businesses; with great success.
But as the technology becomes more and more accessible, the integration into new markets becomes interesting. With the rise of WebAR on smartphones, extended reality solutions are appearing in our hands.
This prospect of widely used AR proves to be the future for retail. Countless brands are pushing advertising campaigns via WebAR. With increased engagement, many brands are finding success already in WebAR.
Recently Walmart bought Leading Virtual Fitting Room Platform Zeekit, providing a new, fun and exciting ways for Walmart to reach out to customers.
The next logical step is transferring the proven success and interest shown by WebAR into the stores themselves.
That is where in-location experience experts Raydient and mobile AR developers Poplar come into play.
As stated in a Salsify survey, 77% of all shoppers use a mobile device to search product information and only 35% of all shoppers are willing to even talk to shop assistants.
Raydient and Poplar have developed an app that looks to capitalise on current shopper behaviours. Creating an app that can be used to scan QR codes on Raydient kiosks.
This will allow for shoppers to interact with, realistic, virtual products. Allowing for users to try on clothes, make up or shoes; similar to other WebAR apps.
AR Use in Stores:
Several studies support the use of AR in stores specifically.
The Impact of Augmented Reality in Retail study, shows that 61% of shoppers would prefer to go to a store with AR support. With a further 68% saying they spend more time in store with AR support.
With the pandemic still present in our world, the idea of shoppers going out to see and feel new clothing doesn’t hold the same appeal. Seemingly causing a shift to AR.
Though Vertebrae Founder and CEO, Vincent Cacace, argues that retailers shouldn’t be to late to the party when shifting to AR. Believing the transition to be modern necessity for retailers.
“There has been an inertia shift. This inertia that previously held them back from focusing on immersive content is now, out of necessity, forcing them to do so.” – Vincent Cacace
While the idea of an AR kiosks seems somewhat far ahead. The quick adoption of WebAR and it’s following funding. Alongside present in-store AR adoption and development, could mean AR kiosks will be appearing sooner than later.
