The Future of Furniture Shopping: How Augmented Reality is Revolutionizing the Industry
Augmented Reality: The Future of Furniture Shopping
Choosing furniture can be a daunting task, as highlighted by New York Times columnist David Brooks in his study of decision-making. However, retailers now have a new tool to help customers make decisions: augmented reality (AR). AR technology allows consumers to see products in their homes before making a purchase, revolutionizing the furniture industry.
What is augmented reality?
Augmented reality (AR) is a technology that overlays digital information over real-world inputs. This technology is particularly valuable for ecommerce businesses, as it allows customers to evaluate products remotely. For furniture retailers, AR technology enables the placement of 3D models of products in a customer’s living room through their smartphone camera, providing a realistic preview of how the furniture will look in their space.
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Benefits of augmented reality in the furniture industry
Increased purchasing confidence
AR technology helps consumers make informed purchasing decisions. Studies have shown that 80% of consumers who use AR to shop experience increased purchasing confidence. This is especially beneficial for the furniture industry, where purchases are significant and context-dependent.
Higher sales
Interacting with products in AR increases the likelihood of customers placing an order. Research indicates that customers using AR are 65% more likely to make a purchase, with a 27% increase in order volumes. Furniture companies, in particular, have seen a significant boost in sales through AR technology.
Greater engagement
AR tools enhance customer engagement both online and in-store. Studies have shown that AR increases the time customers spend with products, leading to more product trials and increased browsing time. This heightened engagement can result in higher conversion rates and customer satisfaction.
Fewer returns
AR technology has been shown to reduce return rates, with 58% of consumers attributing their reduced need for returns to AR experiences. By allowing customers to visualize products in their homes before purchase, AR ensures that they are satisfied with their choices, leading to fewer returns.
Better customer experience
Offering AR tools creates a more enjoyable and interactive shopping experience for customers. The majority of consumers, especially millennials and Gen Zers, express interest in viewing furniture through augmented reality. By providing a high-quality customer experience, brands can increase loyalty, encourage repeat purchases, and enhance brand awareness.
5 uses for augmented reality in the furniture industry
1. Room design
AR room design tools allow customers to visualize furniture in their living spaces, increasing purchase confidence and reducing returns. Companies like Arhaus offer AR-powered Room Planner tools that enable customers to design their rooms with accurately sized furniture.
2. Customization
AR technology allows customers to customize furniture colors and materials, enhancing their shopping experience. Brands like Ethan Allen offer AR product visualization tools that enable customers to preview customizations on 3D models before making a purchase.
3. Marketing materials
QR codes and AR technology can be used to create interactive marketing materials, such as augmented product catalogs. Companies like SCANLIVING use QR codes to provide customers with 3D product models that they can view from all angles.
4. Showrooms
AR can help customers navigate physical showrooms and seamlessly transition between physical and virtual spaces. Lowe’s Vision, for example, offers in-store navigation features that use AR technology to assist customers in finding products within the store.
5. Assembly assistance
AR technology can simplify the furniture assembly process, providing customers with step-by-step guidance. Apps like Assemble AR demonstrate how brands can use AR to enhance the assembly experience for customers.
Augmented reality furniture FAQ
What is augmented reality furniture?
Augmented reality furniture refers to 3D digital models of furniture that customers can view from multiple angles or superimpose in their homes using AR technology.
How is IKEA using augmented reality?
IKEA’s AR application, IKEA Place, allows customers to visualize scaled models of products in their homes before making a purchase, enabling them to test different configurations and colors.
What are AR apps?
AR apps are software programs that combine digital information with real-world inputs, allowing users to interact with virtual objects in physical spaces. These apps enhance the shopping experience by providing customers with a realistic preview of products.
Augmented reality is transforming the furniture industry, offering customers a new way to shop for furniture and providing businesses with valuable tools to increase sales and engagement. As AR technology continues to evolve, it is clear that the future of furniture shopping lies in the digital realm.
