Virtual reality (VR) is a technology that constructs a digital world where users can explore 3D environments as if they were actually there. To interact with VR, users usually wear a headset, which blocks out reality and replaces it with a fully computer-generated world. VR is often used in gaming, simulations, education, and entertainment, but it's also starting to change how people shop online.
Unlike VR, which immerses you in a completely simulated environment, AR adds digital elements to what you already see in reality, typically through your smartphone or AR glasses. AR is commonly used in gaming for interactive experiences, navigation apps to guide you with real-time directions, education to make learning more interactive, advertising to create engaging campaigns and retail to let you try products virtually.
Are high return rates becoming a problem because customers are getting products that don’t meet their expectations? But what if there was a way for your customers to experience your products before buying? This is where virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) can help.
In this article, we’ll dive into how augmented reality and virtual reality in eCommerce are changing the game for online retailers. We’ll also explain what these technologies are, how they can benefit your business, and how to overcome potential challenges when implementing them.
Here are the benefits of implementing VR and AR into eCommerce:
Augmented and virtual reality for eCommerce introduced us to completely new shopping experiences in ways that traditional photos and descriptions never could. With these technologies, customers can interact with products, customize them, or even visualize how they would appear in their own environment. This level of engagement keeps them on your site or app longer, as they can experience your products in a more meaningful way.
When clients enjoy a more immersive shopping experience, they’re more likely to convert. For example, an eCommerce app with VR or AR features lets users see how tech gadgets like smartwatches or speakers would look in real life or even in their homes. When the users feel like they’re making an informed choice, they decide faster and more confidently, so the purchase rates are higher.
One of the biggest pain points for online retailers is returns, especially when customers are disappointed because products don’t meet their expectations. With VR and AR, they can see precisely how something looks or fits before buying. For example, Gunner Kennels saw a 5% drop in return rates after adding AR technology to their site. The feature lets clients see how a kennel would look next to a picture of their dog, and it became easier for clients to pick the right size.
Are high return rates becoming a problem because customers are getting products that don’t meet their expectations? But what if there was a way for your customers to experience your products before buying? This is where virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) can help.
In this article, we’ll dive into how augmented reality and virtual reality in eCommerce are changing the game for online retailers. We’ll also explain what these technologies are, how they can benefit your business, and how to overcome potential challenges when implementing them.
Virtual reality (VR) is a technology that constructs a digital world where users can explore 3D environments as if they were actually there. To interact with VR, users usually wear a headset, which blocks out reality and replaces it with a fully computer-generated world. VR is often used in gaming, simulations, education, and entertainment, but it's also starting to change how people shop online.
Unlike VR, which immerses you in a completely simulated environment, AR adds digital elements to what you already see in reality, typically through your smartphone or AR glasses. AR is commonly used in gaming for interactive experiences, navigation apps to guide you with real-time directions, education to make learning more interactive, advertising to create engaging campaigns and retail to let you try products virtually.
Here are the benefits of implementing VR and AR into eCommerce:
Augmented and virtual reality for eCommerce introduced us to completely new shopping experiences in ways that traditional photos and descriptions never could. With these technologies, customers can interact with products, customize them, or even visualize how they would appear in their own environment. This level of engagement keeps them on your site or app longer, as they can experience your products in a more meaningful way.
When clients enjoy a more immersive shopping experience, they’re more likely to convert. For example, an eCommerce app with VR or AR features lets users see how tech gadgets like smartwatches or speakers would look in real life or even in their homes. When the users feel like they’re making an informed choice, they decide faster and more confidently, so the purchase rates are higher.
One of the biggest pain points for online retailers is returns, especially when customers are disappointed because products don’t meet their expectations. With VR and AR, they can see precisely how something looks or fits before buying. For example, Gunner Kennels saw a 5% drop in return rates after adding AR technology to their site. The feature lets clients see how a kennel would look next to a picture of their dog, and it became easier for clients to pick the right size.
Positive customer experience plays a huge role in boosting sales and reducing returns. Virtual try-on features are among the most powerful instruments for improving both. They allow shoppers to "try on" products virtually using augmented reality (AR). Whether it's clothing, makeup, eyewear, or even shoes, this technology lets them see how products will look on them or in their environment without trying them on physically.
For instance, it’s common for buyers to purchase several pairs of shoes in various sizes and return the ones that don’t fit. This happens because shoe sizes often vary by brand and style, and many people aren’t sure of their exact fit or have different-sized feet. Nike's "Nike Fit" feature helps them find their perfect size by using augmented reality. It allows customers to scan their feet with their smartphone camera, and the app then creates a 3D model to recommend the best shoe size and style for them. This tool was tested in stores in Seattle, Pasadena, California, and Dallas. As a result, Nike reported that returns were down at those stores.
eCommerce VR takes the engaging shopping journey to the next level by allowing customers to explore products in 3D or even visit virtual stores. Rather than viewing static images, they can interact with items, rotate them, and see every detail up close. For example, clients might walk through a store virtually, check out goods from every angle, or even see how a product would look at their place.
BMW’s Virtual Car Showroom is an innovative 3D solution that lets customers explore and personalize cars interactively. They can change everything from the color and wheels, all in real time. Buyers can also compare different models' side-by-side and check prices, schedule test drives, or make a purchase—all from the comfort of their homes. From an eCommerce perspective, BMW's virtual showroom stands out because it makes buying easier, speeds up the process, and keeps guests engaged with a unique shopping interaction.
AR allows clients to try on products virtually and helps reduce the uncertainty of online shopping, like not knowing if a product will fit or look right. Take interactive catalogs, for example. Instead of just looking at static images of offerings, they can view 3D models, rotate, zoom in on, and see them from different angles. Additionally, AR for eCommerce can power personalized recommendations. For example, if a guest is looking for new furniture, AR technology can suggest items that match their style.
IKEA’s IKEA KREATIV app is a remarkable illustration of leveraging AR in e-commerce. This app lets customers browse through IKEA’s catalog and virtually place furniture in their own homes using just their phone or tablet. It uses advanced technology to make sure it looks realistic, so they can easily see how it will look in their house in real life.
Since the launch, IKEA KREATIV has been downloaded over 10 million times worldwide. Shoppers love it, spending an average of 3 minutes each session exploring and visualizing furniture.
As VR and AR technologies become more integrated into e-commerce, more and more companies are eager to adopt them. However, they often face challenges in the process, and knowing how to overcome these potential problems is essential.
Developing immersive 3D environments for VR or integrating AR features requires a big investment in technology and talent. But the good news is that you don't have to go all-in immediately. You can start small by adding simpler AR features like virtual try-ons, that are easier and more affordable to implement. After seeing positive results, you can scale up.
Not everyone has access to the specialized equipment VR requires, like a headset. Even with AR, while most people have smartphones, not all devices support the highest-quality AR experiences. So, how do you make sure your clients can still benefit? Focus on making your AR features compatible with commonly used smartphones. The benefit of such tools is that they often work with devices that most people already own, so you're not asking them to buy new hardware.
Technical issues like lag or poor image quality can frustrate customers. Particularly when introducing new technologies like VR or AR, you definitely want to prevent that. The best way to avoid it is by doing thorough testing before launching. Make sure all the features are working well under real-world conditions. Partnering with professionals who specialize in augmented and virtual reality in eCommerce can also be a good idea to ensure it delivers great interaction for your clients.
VR and AR are changing how online retailers interact with their customers and letting shoppers try products without the need to visit their stores, all from the comfort of their own surroundings. For eCommerce companies, this means reducing return rates or making the shopping process more engaging which ultimately will lead to more sales.
Implementing VR and AR into your eCommerce business requires special expertise and skills, which can be hard to find. A way to overcome the hurdle of finding skilled professionals in a competitive market is through staff augmentation services.
As an experienced outstaffing provider, ALLSTARSIT connects businesses with a global talent pool, eliminating the complexities of hiring and managing an in-house team. If you want to integrate AR/VR eCommerce features, we can help you build a team tailored to your needs.
Contact us to discuss your project needs and discover how we can help you drive the success of your eCommerce business.
Are high return rates becoming a problem because customers are getting products that don’t meet their expectations? But what if there was a way for your customers to experience your products before buying? This is where virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) can help.
In this article, we’ll dive into how augmented reality and virtual reality in eCommerce are changing the game for online retailers. We’ll also explain what these technologies are, how they can benefit your business, and how to overcome potential challenges when implementing them.
