Over the past decade, we have seen myriad transformation in technologies like augmented reality that have impacted in our lives. 

The mobile revolution is making it more and more easier for consumers to shop from a diverse range of devices. Retailers are starting to realize the importance of mobile, and are starting to integrate it more into their customers’ journey. 

AR and smartphones – a heavenly match 

The phrase “augmented reality” was coined in the early 1990s, but the concept existed much earlier. Augmented reality glasses were once considered a mere science fiction device. But as technology advances, smart glasses (wearable technology) are becoming a reality for many people. Thanks to the invention of Google Glasses. 

Though Google Glass didn’t live up to the hype tech companies are not giving up on AR glasses. As time passes, we will get to know more about the Google Glass AR headset. Also, Facebook’s intentions to produce Smart Glasses, and Amazon’s Alexa smart glasses will have their own take on wearable technology. 

With all this information in perspective, we can definitely say that AR’s future is quite exciting. That too when it comes to leveraging the potential of smartphones to enhance the shopping experience. 

What is augmented reality? 

Augmented reality is an interactive computer-generated experience. Meaning, the objects in the real world are “augmented” by computer-generated sensory input. They include sound, video, graphics, and more. The digital information is overlaid on the user’s view of the real world, thus providing a composite view.

Customers will need wearable technology like a special headgear for this type of virtual experience, which are still quite expensive. 

AR-VR Comparison 

Augmented reality is a technology that offers the capabilities to enhance an experience for the user through digital content. Today, businesses are developing AR solutions for customers. This enables them to experience new products and services in a more engaging way. For example, more and more retail businesses are using AR to provide customers with an interactive and engaging experience.

According to Apple, AR is the most popular tool customers use to visualize furniture in their living rooms. A massive segment of the population sees AR as a revolutionary technology in the furniture industry. Hence, the gap between online and in-store purchasing experiences is coming closer.

How can AR change the way we shop for furniture? 

The physical storefronts have become the second choice for purchasing things after the coronavirus epidemic began, as businesses began relocating their operations online owing to lockdowns. Although physical stores, on the other hand, are not going away anytime soon. 

Here are the three main advantages of using AR in furniture: 

Try before you buy 

Customers can virtually try out furniture to make informed decisions. 

Product customization 

Users can visualize and modify the size, color, and placement of the furniture before purchasing.  

In-store engagement 

AR is convenient for in-store navigation and loyalty rewards that customers can save to their wallets. They can eventually redeem them at their convenience.  

Mobile app vs. web AR 

AR is becoming a much more viable and cost-effective solution for businesses. No wonder, online and offline retail giants are adopting this technology for a multitude of purposes. With Amazon using augmented reality, isn’t it time your business adopted this technology too?

Mobile-first is becoming the norm. That’s why, it’s no surprise that 99% of the top 100 retailers have a mobile-optimized website. What’s more, today consumers are more comfortable with shopping on their mobile devices than ever. 

Tech-savvy furniture companies are betting on web AR 

EQ3 recently introduced a web-native augmented reality feature. It allows customers to view the products in their homes before they had even purchased them. This gives the customers a better idea of whether they can fit the furniture they want in their homes. 

EQ3’s product page with QR code that leads to web-AR on a mobile device 

Web AR is the key part of the furniture shopping experience of the future. Due to the growth of e-commerce. Heal’s, a British heritage retailer, has always invested in offering a superior customer experience. This is because e-commerce is a significant part of their business. It accounts for around 50% of their total sales in 2020. 

Why web AR is a table stake today 

With the development of AR technologies, it is possible for anyone to experience the concept of AR without an app. This will help buyers make quick and better purchase decisions. AR “on the fly” is helping IT titans prepare for the next age. 

Let’s unlock the full potential of web-native AR and turbo-boost your customer conversion rates!