Introduction to Augmented Reality
Augmented reality is a technology that has been predicted to interrupt into the mainstream for several years. However, it’s now not a rising technology – it’s already here and getting used in various features of our on a regular basis lives. From Snapchat filters to Pokemon Go, we have all experienced augmented reality ultimately. With the variety of AR users expected to hit the billion mark by 2020, it’s essential to know the best way to design applications that utilize this technology, especially in ecommerce.
Why Use Augmented Reality in Ecommerce?
Augmented reality combines real-life input with computer-generated ones, making a latest and interactive experience. In ecommerce, AR is usually used for distant, real-time product visualization, allowing customers to try on products or see how they’d look of their environment without having to physically be there. This functionality can significantly impact a customer’s purchasing decision, particularly for products that require a high level of commitment or personalization.
Benefits of Augmented Reality in Ecommerce
The use of AR in ecommerce offers several advantages, including increased customer engagement and brand loyalty. A survey by RetailPerceptions found that 71% of shoppers would like a retailer that provides AR, and 61% can be more prone to return to a store that provides AR over one that does not. AR helps shoppers make more informed purchases, boosts customer engagement, and caters to consumers’ wants and expectations.
Designing Augmented Reality Applications
Designing AR applications could be intimidating, even for knowledgeable UX designers. The key to making a successful AR application is to know the inputs and outputs of the user experience. This includes defining what elements a user can interact with and the way they are going to interact with them. The device getting used, whether it is a cell phone or AR glasses, can even have its own inputs available.
Input and Output Definition
Defining an experience’s inputs and outputs is crucial in AR design. This includes determining what physical gestures or device inputs might be used to interact with the applying. For example, a user may use a swipe of their hand or a change in facial features to interact with the applying. The device getting used can even have its own inputs, resembling tactile buttons or voice recognition.
Environmental Considerations
AR applications aren’t certain by a physical screen, and the viewport moves because the user does. However, there are still area constraints to think about. Most AR designers use 4 different signifiers to explain an AR environment: public, social, personal, and intimate. These descriptors signify the areas surrounding the user and the character of the AR app itself.
User Fatigue
AR applications could be literally exhausting, especially in the event that they require the user’s entire body to act as a controller. UX designers should be extra cognizant of interaction costs and take precautions to avoid repeated, high-effort interactions that may tire out the user. This includes placing incessantly accessed functions in easy-to-reach areas and avoiding over-stimulation.
Essential Design Principles
When designing AR applications, it’s essential to recollect the essential tenets of user experience design. This includes implementing visual and audio cues or feedback and providing an in-depth tutorial to assist users understand the best way to interact with the applying. AR applications aren’t the time to get too creative and break from design standards.
Augmenting User Experience
By combining the rules described here with existing UX design skills, designers can create beautiful and interesting AR experiences. AR is just not a brand new technology, nevertheless it’s still evolving, and there is loads to find out about the best way to design applications that put it to use effectively. With the appropriate approach, AR generally is a powerful tool for enhancing user experience and driving business results.
Conclusion
Augmented reality isn’t any longer a rising technology – it’s here, and it’s getting used in various features of our on a regular basis lives. By understanding the best way to design applications that utilize AR, especially in ecommerce, designers can create interactive and interesting experiences that drive business results. Remembering essential design principles and considering the unique challenges of AR design, resembling input and output definition, environmental considerations, and user fatigue, is crucial for creating successful AR applications. As AR continues to evolve, it’s essential to remain up-to-date with the newest trends and best practices to be certain that users have one of the best possible experience.
