We’ve seen a slew of developments in the world of technology over the last decade, and they’ve had a significant influence on every aspect of life. The average customer now has a staggering amount of devices. With the fast proliferation of the coronavirus, businesses have recognised the importance of mobile devices and have begun to include a mobile strategy into the customer journey.
We can’t fathom our lives without our smartphones these days: phone, alarm clock, music player, social media, and all of our favourite applications – our entire lives in our pockets.
However, when we discuss mobile devices nowadays, we are referring to more than simply responsive web design and mobile apps. Businesses are always seeking new ways to harness the potential of these gadgets.
What is augmented/Virtual reality?
Digitally produced material is superimposed on the real environment in augmented reality. As a result, people are not cut off from reality when interacting with virtual information. In the retail industry, augmented reality and virtual reality offer distinct use cases, technology, and market prospects.
The primary distinction between virtual reality and augmented reality is that augmented reality users may view both real and virtual items. This is in contrast to virtual reality, which allows users to explore a 3D computer-generated environment.
This technology produces a completely simulated environment in which humans may move things and do a variety of other tasks. Customers will need special headgear for this type of virtual experience, which are still rather pricey.
This should come as no surprise. Furniture is a very visual sector, and buyers appreciate any attempt to bring the online and in-store purchasing experiences closer together. With this in mind, it’s evident that augmented reality can revolutionise the furniture sector and make decision-making easier.
How can Virtual Reality change the way we shop for furniture?
Physical storefronts have become the second choice for purchasing things after the coronavirus epidemic began, as businesses began to relocate their operations online owing to the lockdowns. Physical stores, on the other hand, are not going away anytime soon.
The forecasts that retail will die shortly have come true. We’ve experienced a renaissance rather than an apocalypse. Technology has been at the forefront of the retail transition, and what we’ve seen so far is merely a taste of what’s to come.
The following are the three primary benefits of adopting virtual reality in furniture:
Before you buy, give it a go.
AR augments tangible things with digital material, allowing buyers to view how a new couch might appear in their home in real-time and without the danger of purchasing something that doesn’t fit. The ability to “test before you buy” is critical, particularly for large-ticket products. Customers can virtually check out furniture without worrying about making a terrible selection, which takes a significant burden off their shoulders before making a large purchase.
Customization of a product.
Before purchase, users may view and change the size, colour, and positioning of the furniture. In this manner, furniture firms can make clients feel less anxious when browsing for furniture by providing them with a wide range of options to try out and letting them buy their favourite item with a single click. 77 per cent of buyers want to utilise augmented reality to notice product variances, such as a change in colour or style, according to Think Mobiles.
In-store interaction.
While at the store, almost 80% of buyers use their phones to search for product information, reviews, and pricing (OuterBox Design). Companies may utilise AR to communicate information, tips, tactics, and how-tos across the store using digital images. Customers may also use AR for in-store navigation and loyalty benefits, which they can save to their wallets and redeem whenever they want.