Augmented reality technology (AR) is an interactive experience of the real world, and the device you are using will intensify your surroundings on a screen. According to research, AR boils down to three basic principles: a blend of reality and virtual environments, real-time interaction, and 3D registration of virtual and real objects. In recent years, it has been implemented in our everyday lives with the likes of Pokemon Go, Snapchat Bitmojis and filters, and video games.
AR should not be confused with virtual reality (VR). VR replaces the real environment with an artificial one whereas AR adds digital features (sounds, graphics, pictures, videos, and so on) to the real world.
Back in the 1990s, the term ‘augmented reality’ was coined, and throughout the 21st century, the technology has bloomed. Pokemon Go (2016) was a landmark milestone in the development of AR, within the first week of it being launched it made $2 million! Since 2016 the market has soared and last year (2019) saw the largest growth in AR as the apps the technology supports reached 1.5 billion users. It has been predicted AR technology will continue to be implemented into our everyday digital lives and is a field of massive potential growth.
If the Coronavirus pandemic has taught businesses anything it is that they must be digital in order to succeed in this world. E-commerce has steadily been growing over the past few years, but in 2020 it has seen inflation of users. Research has shown 61% of online shoppers prefer to use sites that use AR technology and 35% of this study group said they would shop online more often if AR technology was used!
Additionally, AR technology is increasingly being used on social media sites, like Instagram and Snapchat that are visual-based. Brands that utilize Instagram as a way to interact with their customers and promote themselves are starting to use filters in a very smart way. Some brands are using AR filters of their products to let their users try it on virtually!
Through using AR filters, brands have a higher chance of selling their products with ease, especially if they promote the filters to social media influencers. The application of AR in this manner is a game changer for e-commerce.
Many shops are still not allowing customers to try on accessories, clothing, or shoes. As a result, customers are put off buying any of these products in fear it will end up being a waste of money if it does not fit or is not their style. So AR technology can prompt consumers to explore a brand’s products more, and more than likely buy something if it suits them!
All in all, the growth of AR since the dawn of the 21st century has been unprecedented. Online users utilize this technology every day (perhaps with even knowing) to shop, play games, or entertain themselves. AR Instagram filters are the future of influencers and brands in order to promote products and to enhance their interactive approach to their customers.
