AR (Augmented Reality) is making waves in the technology industry and changing how companies sell products. Already today, more and more businesses are adopting new technologies into their operations – from email marketing automation tools to product price and availability tracking software. Augmented reality is the next and even more groundbreaking step. With the ability to change people’s reality, companies are finding ways of being more engaging and impactful with customers. The interest in AR isn’t just coming from the companies, but from customers too.
The possibilities are virtually endless when it comes to implementing AR into eCommerce. It does leave many people asking, “is AR essential to reaching a new level of eCommerce customer experiences design?” Here is a deeper look at AR and how it's being used to reach the next level of eCommerce customer experiences.
What is Augmented Reality?
Augmented reality (AR) is a technology that superimposes computer-generated images on a user's view of the real world, thus providing a composite view.
While virtual reality (VR) creates a completely artificial environment, AR enhances the user's natural surroundings with digital information and imagery.
The potential applications for AR are vast and varied, but ecommerce is one area where this technology is beginning to take off. By enabling customers to see what a product would look like in their own home or office, AR has the potential to revolutionize the way we shop online.
AR apps are still in their infancy, but already we are seeing some retailers experimenting with this technology. IKEA, for example, has released an app that lets users see how furniture would look in their own space. This is just the beginning – as AR technology develops, we can expect to see more and more retailers harnessing its power to give customers a truly immersive shopping experience.
How is Augmented Reality Different From Virtual Reality?
Augmented reality (AR) is a live direct or indirect view of a physical, real-world environment whose elements are "augmented" by computer-generated sensory input such as sound, video, graphics or GPS data.
It is different from virtual reality (VR) in that it incorporates real-world elements into the experience. AR provides an immersive experience by overlaying digital information on the real world.
How Does AR Improve eCommerce Customer Experiences?
AR can improve eCommerce customer experience in a number of ways. For example, it can provide customers with a more visual experience, making it easier for them to see what they are buying. Additionally, AR can transform the consumer experience by providing more interactive and engaging content. This can make the customer journey more enjoyable and informative, ultimately leading to improved customer satisfaction.
Is it Difficult to Get Started With AR?
For users, there are a few things they'll need to do in order to get started, such as downloading an AR app and installing it on their device. Once they have the app, they'll need to find AR content to view. This can be done by searching for AR apps in the app store or online. Once you have the content, they need to point their device's camera at it so that the AR app can recognize it.
Assuming you want to get started with AR development for a mobile app, it can be difficult to get started. First, identify which platform you want to develop for iOS or Android? Then, you need to determine what type of AR experience you want to create- markerless or marker-based? After that, find the right tools and SDKs for your project and start building out your app. While there are many resources available to help with AR development, it can still be a challenge to get started. However, if you partner with a web development or mobile app development compay with experience creating AR content, it is much easier. They can handle all of the details for you.
Take Customer Experiences to the Next Level With AR
One thing is for sure, AR can help take customer experiences to a new level. However, your business will need to make some changes so that you can use AR to its fullest. The best way to do this is to work with a company that has the resources and expertise to help you implement AR into your operations. At KitelyTech, we work with companies to develop digital assets with the newest technologies, including AR. Let us help you use AR to take customer experiences to the next level. Call us at (800) 274-2908 to get started on a new AR integration project and show your customer what good customer experience is all about.
