eCommerce Explorer: AR You Ready Merchants?

Welcome back, fellow eCommerce adventurers, to another episode of the eCommerce Explorer series! Today, we’re putting on our virtual headsets and venturing into augmented reality (AR) – where “trying before you buy” takes on a whole new meaning.

First making waves in video games and sci-fi films, AR has now landed in the retail space, changing how we shop. Whether it’s trying on virtual clothes or seeing how that new couch fits in your living room, AR is transforming the way customers interact with products. But what does this mean for the future of shopping? How far can AR go in the digital commerce world? 

A Glimpse into the AR 

First, let’s clarify what augmented reality actually is. In layman’s terms, AR overlays digital elements (images, sounds, or other sensory enhancements) onto our real-world environment. Imagine this: you’re in your livingroom, trying to figure out if that colorful chair you saw online will complement your space. Instead of guessing, AR lets you virtually “place” the chair in your room. Suddenly, you’re not just imagining it – you’re actually seeing it.

But AR isn’t just for home décor enthusiasts. It’s creeping into every nook and cranny of the eCommerce world. Want to try on sunglasses? AR’s got you covered. Need to see how that red lipstick would look on you? AR is there, saving you from the dreaded return process (and that’s a service worth its weight in gold).

Why Should Merchants Care?

Now, let’s talk about treasure – what’s in it for merchants? This is a golden opportunity. Imagine if you could bring your entire inventory to life without needing to rent more space or hire extra staff. Sounds pretty good, right?

Here are some other key benefits: 

• Reduced Returns: One of the biggest pain points for online sellers is dealing with returns. With AR, customers can make better-informed decisions, drastically cutting down on the “Oops, this wasn’t what I expected” factor.
• Higher Conversion Rates: When customers can see exactly what they’re getting, they’re more confident in their purchase – and confidence drives sales. Think of AR as the trusty compass that points them straight toward the checkout.
• Turn Window Shoppers into Buyers: You know those visitors who browse your site but never buy anything? AR can turn these tire kickers into buyers. By offering them an interactive experience, they’re more likely to get attached to your product. 

Set Sail with AR

It’s easy to see why AR is gaining traction in eCommerce. But before we get too excited, there’s still a lot more to uncover. How do you actually weave AR into your online store? Let’s figure it out. 

1. Start Small with AR Apps

You don’t need to rebuild your entire site to include AR. Start by incorporating AR into your existing product pages using AR apps. There are plenty of third-party tools that can help you add an AR feature to your site. 

2. Use AR in Social Media Campaigns

Who doesn’t love a good Instagram filter? AR isn’t just for your website; it can also spice up your social media. Create a custom AR filter that lets users “try on” your products and share their virtual experience with their followers. This not only boosts visibility but also engages potential customers.

3. Educate Your Customers

As cool as AR is, some people might still be hesitant to use it. You know, the kind who still think online shopping is risky business. So, make sure you have clear instructions and a bit of a demo to show them how easy and fun it is to use AR on your site. 

Common AR Myths

Before we reach the final port, let’s tackle a few myths about AR that might be scaring some merchants off-course.

• “It’s too expensive!” Sure, developing AR technology from scratch can cost a pretty penny, but there are now plenty of affordable, plug-and-play solutions available. 
• “AR doesn’t really impact sales.” In fact, studies show that AR can boost conversion rates by up to 40% and reduce return rates by 30%. It’s like giving your customers a sneak peek into how products will fit their lives, making them feel more confident and happy with their purchases. 
• “It’s just a fad.” AR might sound futuristic, but it’s far from a passing trend. More and more shoppers expect immersive online experiences, and the benefit that AR brings to the table is too valuable to ignore.

How Far Can AR Go in the Future of eCommerce?

The future of AR in eCommerce is taking shape fast. By 2025 (which is soon folks 🙂), nearly 75% of consumers will expect AR as part of their shopping experience. Virtual fitting rooms, 3D product models, and AI-driven personalization will become the norm. As mentioned above, AR could boost online sales by up to 40%, making it a game-changer for retailers looking to enhance customer experiences and increase conversions. The line between online and in-store? It’s about to disappear. 

Do We Have Any AR Success Stories at Home?

Aye, we do! Take our client Bestlaminate as an example. With a mission to give their customers a personalized experience, we integrated them Roomvo’s Room Viewer. This handy feature allows shoppers to take a photo of their room and instantly visualize how their chosen flooring will look in their space. The Room Viewer feature helps customers feel confident about their choices in just seconds, making their buying journey as smooth as a polished hardwood floor. 

Final Thoughts

There you have it, fellow explorers! Augmented reality isn’t just fancy tech; it’s a practical tool that can make shopping more engaging, cut down on returns, and boost your sales. It’s not about jumping on the latest trend – it’s about making your store better for your customers. And isn’t this the whole point of eCommerce? 

So, AR you ready? We hope so, because the future of eCommerce is here, and it’s augmented. 

Until next time, toodaloo from just another eCommerce explorer!