4 Ways Augmented Reality Is Changing How We Shop

According to the Google AR Survey, 66 percent of online customers are interested in using the technology to assist them in making purchase selections. But what exactly does that imply for producers, especially those in the furniture sector? Is augmented reality for furniture a true game-changer when it comes to boosting internet sales? It just may be.

This article was written by our 3D modeling studio, which specializes in the production of realistic computer graphics. Namely, we'll answer the following questions about how to use augmented reality in your job.

Furniture producers' worst nightmare is return rates. Despite the fact that only 7% of online purchasers in the US returned furniture and other household items in 2021, firms incurred significant expenses as a result of high shipping expenses. Most returns occur because goods are not suitable for their new owners' homes rather than being defective.

Now, in order to assist customers locate the ideal furniture for their homes, retailers are turning to augmented reality. Customers may virtually place life-size items in their desired settings and check if they will fit dimensions and design criteria. As a consequence, the likelihood of consumers purchasing the incorrect goods and needing to return them plummet significantly.

As the Covid-19 epidemic is still ongoing, many furniture companies are searching for solutions to avoid large financial loses in the future. Augmented reality is simply the technology that allows producers to offer consumers with something close to real-world shopping during crises.

Even those who are accustomed to traditional brick-and-mortar shops will feel at ease when purchasing high-priced pieces of furniture thanks to the use of an AR app. All because they'll be sure what the items will look like in their homes.

A study conducted by the University of Cologne found that conversion rates increased by 3.75 percent when AR was used during the shopping process.
The use of AR in online stores provides customers with an immersive experience that is otherwise not possible. They can now view how a piece of furniture would look like in their home without having to leave their house.

This is extremely beneficial for retailers as it allows them to close a sale without the customer ever having to step into a store.
In addition, using AR also allows retailers to upsell and cross-sell products to customers. For example, if a customer is looking at purchasing a sofa, they can be shown different throw pillows and blankets that go with it.
This is a great way to increase the average order value of each customer.

If you're wondering how AR furniture shopping apps work, the 3D modeling process is actually quite simple.

First, a retailer will need to have 3D models of their products. These 3D models can be created by either scanning the actual product or by using 3D modeling software.
Once the 3D models are created, they will need to be uploaded into an AR platform. There are many different AR platforms to choose from, but we recommend using Apple Responsys.
Once the 3D models are uploaded, they can then be viewed by customers in the AR app.
This allows customers to see how the furniture would look like in their home before making a purchase.

As you can see, there are many benefits to using augmented reality in your furniture business. Not only does it allow you to reduce return rates.