What is augmented reality shopping?
Augmented reality shopping enables customers to try products on and test them virtually, using an electronic device, such as a headset or phone. This can help consumers to engage with products remotely, bridging one of the main barriers to ecommerce sales.
How popular is augmented reality shopping?
A study from Snap has revealed the importance of augmented reality shopping, with over half of UK consumers choosing shopping as their top reason to engage with augmented reality.
New research from Snap reveals that as consumer expectations of the possibilities of augmented reality grow, a major gulf remains when it comes to brands’ perception of how consumers want to use it – with retail leading the way as the main reason people engage with augmented reality.
The study of more than 25,000 people across 11 markets, in partnership with Ipsos, highlights mainstream adoption of AR amongst consumers and reveals massive opportunities for brands to use AR to engage, inform, entertain and build customer loyalty.
The UK survey released today, reveals 94% of brands still perceive ‘fun’ as the main draw for people to use AR. In fact, only 54% of people think of it this way, with over half (55%) of UK consumers listing shopping as their top reason for engaging with AR, revealing a huge opportunity for brands to provide shoppers with more relevant AR ecommerce experiences.
AR powers a new shopping experience
People said AR makes their shopping experience better, easier and quicker. 6 in 10 said it helps them shop in new and exciting ways; while 82% of brands that use AR said it allows them to provide a seamless customer experience, helping to drive conversion.
People see AR as a tool to experience a product before making a purchase. More than three quarters (79%) of respondents said they were interested in using AR to ‘place products’ in their environment to visualise how they’ll look. Meanwhile 57% revealed they’re more likely to buy from a brand that allows them to try on an item using AR.
Virtual try-on represents an untapped opportunity for retailers
While 77% of people are interested in using AR to interact with a product before buying it, only 48% of brands have implemented virtual try-on experiences.
People want to learn more about products before they purchase: 73% of people are interested in using AR scanning codes to find more product information. Currently only 30% of brands who use AR have implemented these.
AR makes fashion more immersive: 64% of people say AR makes it easier to experience the work of their favourite designers.
AR has potential to make shopping more sustainable: 80% of people and 82% of brands believe AR has the potential to help the environment by reducing returns.
AR boosts loyalty for brands
Brands already using AR report its significant positive impact on loyalty. 64% said it improves loyalty and customer experience. 82% of brands said it helps to drive sales, acquire new customers and drive performance metrics, while 88% said it improves engagement and appeal to young audiences. It helps their customers to explore the world, connect with others and improve themselves.
Fintan Gillespie, Head of UK Business Solutions Snap Inc. said, “250 million Snapchatters engage with AR everyday and this report highlights the huge untapped potential of AR for retailers. This technology is transforming the way we shop and it isn’t an opportunity way off in the future – it’s happening right now. We’re excited to see the scale of opportunity for brands to showcase products, push creative boundaries, drive value and most critically – improve conversions to drive real business results.”
Holly brings a wealth of experience in both print and digital publishing. As Modern Retail’s Content Editor, Holly is passionate about helping independent retailers to thrive in today’s ever-changing market.
