Read time: 1.9 minutes
Among many other new technologies, both consumers and advertisers are taking benefits of augmented reality. Besides AR being popular in games, it is getting more popular for retailers. This is because AR for eCommerce gives shoppers a whole new way to try products before making a purchase, instilling more confidence in their buying decision. As a result, retailers can see a significant increase in sales as customers feel better about buying their products.
1. Appeal to a Growing Number of AR users
As AR technology continues to develop, more consumers are using it while shopping, according to these recent AR statistics. In fact, around 32% of shoppers used AR in 2020, which directed their focus to products' selling points and increased engagement with businesses. If you want to establish a stronger connection with your customers, AR is the key.
2. Communicate the Look and Feel of Your Products
One of the main benefits of AR for eCommerce is that it gives customers an accurate understanding of how products look and feel. They'll get a clear idea of what the product will look like before buying it. Using realistic 3D models, customers can see how a new couch would fit into their living room. Alternatively, they can "try on" a piece of furniture and see how it would appear in different lighting settings.
3. Properly Integrate AR into eCommerce Integration
Only around 1% of retailers are using AR for their eCommerce stores or physical stores. One of the reasons this number is so low is because 52% of retailers aren't adequately prepared to integrate an AR solution. There are certain steps that businesses need to take to implement AR and integrate it into their eCommerce sites. These steps include 3D modeling, photogrammetry, and virtual photography. All of these can be a challenge for people who are inexperienced with them.
4. Offer an In-Store AR Experience
AR can replicate the in-store experience online. But augmented reality features in your store could further enrich the physical shopping experience, too. This means that AR is far from relegated to exclusively eCommerce brands. Any retailer can use AR to improve the buying experience and increase customer satisfaction.
5. Make Buying Experience More Conveient for Users
With the help of AR, you can actually encourage customers to spend more on your business. In today's online markets, 40% of consumers state that they're willing to pay more for products they can customize with AR.
Increased convenience also means more overall sales. If people can easily see what products will look like and how they'll cost in a virtual "try before you buy" experience, you'll effectively get fewer people to abandon their shopping cart. Accurate visualizations of your products will eliminate any doubt as to whether a product is right for a particular customer. This will encourage them to complete the checkout process.