Augmented Reality: How Does It Impact Ecommerce?

Augmented reality, abbreviated as AR, incorporates technology and three-dimensional models into the purchase process. It helps the shoppers to try on the product before they shop it online. This makes it similar to real life shopping. Recently, several brands made use of AR to promote their sales. For instance, makeup and beauty brands included an option that allows the buyer to “actually” try the color of a lipstick. Using the front camera of the mobile phone, you can now to see how perfectly a concealer matches your skin tone. Other brands also allow buyers to check the size of a jacket or jeans. They use a 3D model similar in shape to the human body. All these features gave AR more popularity among brands.

In fact, the use of AR in your online store gives users a more easy experience. It is a mix between the physical and the online stores. Before the COViD-19 pandemic, people were more likely to shop their items from malls and stores. However, the strict safety procedures implemented greatly affected their shopping experience. Today, many customers favor the eCommerce store over a real shop or mall. They can buy their items from any where and any time they want. In other words, “digital” shopping has replaced the tradition one. Thus, AR technology came as response to the shift toward the digital world. So, how does AR impact eCommerce?

In eCommerce, Augmented Reality has several benefits:

First, it enabled buyers to make better decisions. As a result, they became less likely to replace items they previously bought. Also, the rate of return decreased thanks to AR technology.

Secondly, augmented reality also enhanced the relation between the brand and the customers. Since AR allows shoppers to try on item before buying it, customers are more encouraged to shop items. They also trust the brand more.

Lastly, it increases the rate of conversions. More users will spend money and shop their favorite items from your online store.