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10 Ways AR and VR Will Impact the Future of Advertising & Marketing

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Have you ever heard the terms virtual reality (VR) or augmented reality (AR) and wondered what they mean? These buzzwords are not just a passing trend but are set to revolutionize the way we interact with technology. 

Virtual reality is an immersive experience created by a computer, where the user is fully immersed in a simulated environment. This can be achieved through headsets connected to a computer, such as the Oculus Rift and Nintendo Famicom, or through smartphones and computers. 

On the other hand, augmented reality is the overlay of computer-generated images on top of the real world. This can be seen in sports broadcasts where explanatory imagery is superimposed on the live action or in the Apple iPhone X’s front-facing camera that can graft emojis onto human faces in real-time. 

In this discussion, we will take a deep dive into the world of VR and AR and explore the impact they have on our lives and how they are set to shape the future of technology.  

Increased Immersion and Engagement  

Virtual and augmented reality are set to revolutionize the way we interact with products and services, creating immersive and interactive user experiences that allow consumers to engage with your brand in a whole new way. The economic impact of these technologies is projected to reach an astounding $29.5 billion this year, and it’s easy to see why. By leveraging VR and AR, businesses can improve customer awareness, provide personalized experiences, and streamline purchasing. If leveraged correctly, these technologies have the potential to drive significant growth for your business.  

Here are some relevant examples of VR & AR in marketing –  

Oreo: The World of a Flavoured Cookie 360°  

Imagine being transported to a world of endless possibilities with the power of virtual reality. Oreo’s “Wonder Vault” campaign, using Google’s Cardboard headset, is a perfect example of how VR can captivate the imagination and engage with audiences uniquely and memorably. The campaign allowed viewers to explore the fantastical place where Oreo’s cookie flavors are dreamed up, traveling through milk rivers, cocoa mountains, and life-sized Oreos to witness the creation of their new Filled Cupcake flavored Oreos. This was not only a fun and engaging campaign but also an effective way to increase awareness for the launch of a new product. 

Video link: https://youtu.be/ENau7AkayN8 

 Ikea  

Home decorating can be a daunting task, requiring meticulous planning and visualization to bring your design ideas to life. But with the advent of augmented reality, the process has become much more manageable and enjoyable. Take Ikea Place, for example, an app that allows you to virtually place over 2,000 of their products in your home, using the camera on your phone as a tool. This means you can see how a piece of furniture will look in your space before you buy it, and even visualize functionalities such as a fold-out sofa turning into a bed. With augmented reality, home decorating becomes a fun and effortless experience. 

Video link:https://youtu.be/UudV1VdFtuQ  

Sephora  

Sephora’s “Virtual Artist” tool is a shining example of how augmented reality can enhance the customer experience in the beauty industry. Since its launch in 2016, this feature on the Sephora app has been a favorite among customers, allowing them to virtually try on makeup products before making a purchase. From experimenting with different shades of lipstick to layering eye shadows, the “Virtual Artist” tool offers a fun and interactive way for customers to explore Sephora’s product offerings, and discover the perfect look for them. It has been a game changer in the beauty industry, and customers continue to enjoy the features of this app. 

Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) can be used to create personalized marketing experiences by immersing customers in a brand’s world and allowing them to interact with products more realistically. For example, retailers can use AR technology to allow customers to virtually try on clothes or see how a piece of furniture will look in their home before making a purchase. Similarly, VR can be used to create virtual showrooms or product demonstrations, allowing customers to experience a product more realistically and engagingly. Additionally, AR and VR can be used to create interactive and personalized brand experiences, such as virtual tours of a company’s facilities or personalized product training sessions. These technologies allow marketers to create more engaging and memorable experiences for customers, which can help to increase brand loyalty and drive sales.  

Data Collection and Analysis  

Traditional data visualization tools such as bar graphs and pie charts are no longer sufficient to effectively communicate today’s data’s complexity. To fully leverage the vast amount of data we collect, it’s essential to make it accessible and understandable to a broader range of users, not just data scientists. Artificial intelligence and augmented/virtual reality (AR/VR) can revolutionize data analytics by providing more intuitive and interactive ways to visualize data, allowing users to easily identify patterns and extract insights. With AR/VR, it’s possible to experience data in a 3D space, enabling users to see crucial information such as data clusters at the intersection of multiple dimensions, which is not possible with 2D visualizations.  

Increased Accessibility and Convenience  

AR and VR technology can be easily accessed through smartphones and other devices so users can experience the benefits of AR and VR technology anytime and anywhere, making it possible to visualize data, visualize products in a store, or experience virtual tours, all from the convenience of their device. The ability to access AR and VR technology through mobile devices also increases accessibility and expands the potential user base, allowing more people to experience the benefits of this technology.  

Improved Targeting and Reach  

Remember the craze of Pokemon Go? It’s now time for marketers to catch ’em all – with AR. This tech-gem has the potential to skyrocket customer engagement, interest, and sales. Deloitte reports that savvy mid-market companies are already using AR to enhance user experience and the global AR market is predicted to soar to $75 billion by 2023. Unleash the power of AR and watch your brand recognition soar, while delivering a supreme experience to your customers.  

Enhanced Customer Service  

Consumers are now relying more than ever on digital tools to make buying decisions, complete transactions, and seek post-purchase support. And that’s where VR and AR come into play – offering the innovative tools that companies need to level up their customer experience strategy. 

Companies like IKEA, Sephora, and Lowe’s are already leading the charge, and it’s time for you to join the VR bandwagon and take your customer service to the next level.  

Increased Collaboration and Productivity  

Augmented Reality (AR) adds a spark of digital magic to the real world, superimposing vital information right before our eyes. Say goodbye to cluttered physical documents and hello to streamlined communication and collaboration. With AR, teams can work together seamlessly from afar, eliminating the need for face-to-face interactions while still preserving the collaborative spirit of working together in a shared virtual space. 

Remote teams can struggle to bond with new hires, but AR and Virtual Reality (VR) technology bridge that gap. No more awkward phone calls trying to explain processes, VR simulates environments where employees can work together in real-time, bridging the distance with a touch of virtual reality. The show, don’t tell, with VR – a revolutionary tool that makes work feel like a walk in the park.  

New Opportunities for Creativity and Innovation  

AR & VR are like whimsical fairy dust for creativity, adding a pinch of digital flair to our imagination. These technologies enhance our work and awaken our inner artists, allowing us to bring our wildest ideas to life. With AR & VR, we can dive into a virtual world of endless possibilities and turn our creative visions into reality. Who knew technology could be so much fun?  

Conclusion  

In conclusion, AR and VR are transforming the way businesses interact with their customers, creating more immersive and personalized experiences. The integration of AR and VR technology in advertising and marketing has proven to be successful in increasing customer engagement, improving data analysis, and making it easier for customers to access products and services. From virtual product demonstrations to personalized virtual showrooms, these technologies have the potential to revolutionize the way businesses reach and engage with their target audiences. As the market for AR and VR continues to grow, businesses that embrace these technologies will have a competitive edge and the opportunity to drive significant growth for their business. 

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