Introduction to Augmented Reality
U-Haul is taking a singular approach to customer engagement by bringing certainly one of its locations to life through augmented reality. The company’s Moving and Self-Storage of Midtown location in Detroit has incorporated picture recognition technology, allowing consumers to access special content in regards to the location using their smartphones.
How it Works
The technology, provided by Aurasma, enables consumers to make use of their smartphones as a visible search tool to unlock hidden content from locations and objects they interact with each day. By pointing their phone on the physical entrance to the constructing, users can see U-Haul International’s executive vp, Stuart Shoen, appear within the doorway. Stuart introduces himself and highlights the corporate’s storage solutions, in addition to its plans to sustainably construct out the physical location and revitalize the local area.
Building Relationships with Customers
The augmented reality experience is designed to provide customers a greater take a look at what is going on on contained in the constructing. It ends with a full-screen call-to-action, encouraging users to learn more about U-Haul’s efforts by visiting their "Moving Detroit" mobile-friendly blog. To launch the experience, users must download the Brophy ViewAR app, which is on the market from Apple’s App Store or Google Play. A QR code on a register the entryway of the constructing might be scanned to download the app.
Brands Embracing Augmented Reality
U-Haul will not be the one company to embrace augmented reality. Many brands are using this technology to drive customer engagement. For example, Taylor Swift’s mobile app includes an augmented reality experience triggered by interacting along with her album, Red. Elizabeth Arden has also incorporated augmented reality into its unsolicited mail campaigns, product packaging, and print advertisements. Additionally, Buffalo Wild Wings has rolled out an internet and mobile pop-a-shot game that uses augmented reality technology to reinforce the sport when played at their restaurants.
The Benefits of Augmented Reality
By adding a layer of useful digital information to existing locations, corporations like U-Haul are adding meaningful content to otherwise static, on a regular basis items. This technology has the potential to revolutionize the best way corporations interact with their customers. As Lauren Offers, global head of selling for Aurasma, notes, "By taking an existing nearby constructing and adding a layer of useful digital information with Aurasma, marketing corporations like Brophy are adding meaningful content to otherwise static, on a regular basis items."
Conclusion
U-Haul’s use of augmented reality is a major example of how corporations can use revolutionary technology to drive customer engagement. By providing customers with a singular and interactive experience, U-Haul is constructing relationships and promoting its brand in a brand new and exciting way. As more corporations begin to embrace augmented reality, we will expect to see much more revolutionary uses of this technology in the long run.
