Introduction to Augmented Reality in Retail
The world of retail is changing, and firms at the moment are using technology to make shopping easier and more fun. Williams-Sonoma has just announced its first augmented reality app, together with 3-D room design and product visualization tools for the Pottery Barn and PBteen brands. This recent technology is powered by Google’s Tango technology and is about to revolutionize the best way we shop.
What is Augmented Reality?
Augmented reality is a technology that enables us to see digital information in the true world. It’s like having a virtual try-on feature, but as a substitute of just trying on clothes, you may see how furniture would look in your own home. The "3D Room View" app by Pottery Barn is the primary of its kind, and it allows customers to see how furniture would look of their front room before they buy it.
How Does it Work?
The app uses Tango sensors and computer vision software to enable augmented reality experiences on smartphones. Customers can use the app to design their perfect front room, and even get help from in-store design specialists at select Pottery Barn stores. The app is offered on Tango-enabled smartphones, resembling Lenovo’s Phab 2 Pro and Asus Zenphone AR.
Other Retailers Using Augmented Reality
Pottery Barn isn’t the primary retailer to make use of augmented reality and 3-D capabilities. Wayfair has been allowing customers to make use of similar capabilities for some time now, and even has its own 3-D model library. Other retailers, resembling Sephora and Lowe’s, are also using augmented reality to reinforce customer engagement.
The Future of Augmented Reality in Retail
The use of augmented reality in retail continues to be in its infancy, however it’s growing fast. Google’s Tango technology continues to be relatively recent, and there are only a couple of smartphones that support it. However, with an increasing number of retailers beginning to use augmented reality, it’s likely that we’ll see more Tango-enabled smartphones in the long run. Pottery Barn’s commitment to rolling out more apps and features over the following yr is a big step forward, and it would be interesting to see how other retailers follow suit.
Conclusion
The use of augmented reality in retail is an exciting development that is set to vary the best way we shop. With firms like Pottery Barn and Wayfair leading the best way, we will expect to see an increasing number of retailers using this technology in the long run. Whether you are purchasing for furniture or trying on clothes, augmented reality is about to make the experience more fun and more interactive. As the technology continues to grow and develop, we will expect to see much more modern uses of augmented reality in retail.
