Over the years, shopping has gone through some remarkable changes. It has moved from bustling stores to the convenience of digital platforms. Technological advancements such as virtual try-on solutions have revolutionized how customers interact with products online.
This blog will delve into the comparison between online shopping experience vs. In-store shopping experience, revealing why online shopping is poised to dominate the future. Along with this, we will also explore the success stories of leading brands that have embraced this technology.
It is an undeniable fact that online shopping has transformed the shopping experience tremendously over the past few years. The shift from physically visiting stores to browsing and buying products online with a single click from the comfort of the home is a massive change.
Amidst this evolution, virtual try-on technology brought in a significant change, particularly for industries like fashion, beauty, jewelry, watches, eyewear, and many more. Virtual try-on technology has made it possible for customers to visualize how a product looks on them digitally.
Let’s delve in and learn the complexities of the in-store experience, the benefits of VTO technology, the online shopping experience vs. the In-store shopping experience, and why it is becoming the future of retail.
In-store shopping experience works like a charm. It offers the ability to touch, feel, and try products before purchasing. However, it comes with its set of challenges such as long queues, limited store hours, restricted inventory, and crowded environments can make the process less user-friendly.
Additionally, customers often face pressure from staff, which can lead to rushed or regrettable purchases. While in-store experience allows for personal interaction and immediate gratification, they are often time-consuming and lack the flexibility that modern shoppers seek.
Enriched by virtual try-on technology, online experience bridges the gap between convenience and personalization. Virtual try-on solutions allow customers to try various products digitally, simulating the in-store experience without the need to step out. Whether it’s trying on glasses, makeup, or jewelry, this technology empowers users to make confident purchasing decisions.
By utilizing virtual try-on technology, eCommerce platforms create an immersive shopping experience that is interactive and customer-focused. This enhances satisfaction and reduces the return rate while increasing conversion rates.
Enriched by virtual try-on technology, online experience bridges the gap between convenience and personalization. Virtual try-on solutions allow customers to try various products digitally, simulating the in-store experieOnline shopping through virtual try-on solutions offers numerous benefits for your retail store. Here’s the list of top benefits that you get:
Virtual try-on technology offers a highly personalized shopping experience by letting customers see how products look on them. The virtual try-on solution customizes the experience to individual preferences, whether it’s a clothing fit or lipstick shade. It creates a sense of exclusivity and improves their connection with the brand.
For instance, LensKart allows users to try on glasses visually to determine the best fit and style for their faces.
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Virtual try-on solutions offer businesses valuable insights and data about customer preferences and behaviors. These insights and data help you to make informed decisions and improve product offerings.
For example, Sephora can use VTO technology to analyze which lipstick shades or foundation tones are most frequently tried to help them optimize inventory and marketing campaigns.
Undoubtedly the most obvious one, VTO technology eliminates the guesswork and ensures that the customers feel confident in their purchases. This interactive experience replicates the tangibility of in-store shopping while maintaining the convenience of online platforms.
For example, Zalando can use VTO technology to let customers see how a dress fits their body type, reducing uncertainty and return rates.
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When customers can visualize how a product looks on them, the likelihood of completing a purchase increases significantly. This reduces hesitation and drives faster purchasing decisions.
For instance, Sephora’s virtual try-on tools have boosted their sales by allowing users to test different makeup looks without any physical application.
Virtual try-on solutions offer unique marketing opportunities, such as interactive ads and social media campaigns. This increases visibility and creates a sense of trust and authenticity among potential customers.
For example, FutureSoft India’s virtual try-on solution allows users to share their experiences with their friends on platforms like Instagram which generates organic buzz for the brand.
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Despite its benefits, virtual try-on technology is not without challenges. These include:
| Aspect | Online Shopping Experience | In-store Shopping Experience |
|---|---|---|
| Convenience | Available 24/7, shop from anywhere | Limited to store hours |
| Personalization | High, with custom virtual experiences | Moderate, depends on sales staff |
| Product Variety | Extensive inventory | Limited to store capacity |
| Time Efficiency | Instant, no waiting | Requires travel and time in-store |
| Try-on Experience | Virtual try-on solutions | Physical touch and feel |
| Social Sharing | Easily share virtual experiences online | Restricted to in-person interactions |
| Return Rates | Reduced due to informed purchases | Higher due to impulse buying |
The journey would be incomplete without some real-world success stories who implemented virtual try-on technology to their eCommerce website and leveraged it to their advantage. Here are a few examples:
LensKart was one of the first companies in India to implement VTO technology on their eCommerce website and app. Their glasses try-on for eyewear has improved customer satisfaction and reduced return rates.
They have seen a 30% increase in conversion rates by allowing users to see how frames suit their faces. It helped them to enhance user satisfaction and streamline the decision-making process.
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Sephora’s AR-powered virtual try-on solutions for makeup products have revolutionized beauty shopping. Their makeup try-on tool allows customers to test shades and styles digitally. This helped them to gain a 21% increase in sales and higher customer engagement.
Sephora’s virtual try-on solutions have set a benchmark in the beauty industry. It highlighted how technology can improve user experience.
Titan’s integration of Virtual try-on technology for watches has enhanced its online shopping platform. The watches’ try-on makes it easier for customers to choose the perfect accessory. This helped them gain a 25% boost in online sales.
It reinforced the brand’s commitment to utilizing the technology for customer satisfaction, as it made it easier for customers to visualize their purchases.
Tanishq has integrated virtual try-on solutions for its jewelry collection. Customers can try on jewelry such as necklaces, earrings, bracelets, rings, etc. It bridges the gap between in-store and online shopping.
This has improved user confidence and reduced cart abandonment rates by 18%. This demonstrates the effectiveness of VTO technology in the jewelry sector.
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Zalando has utilized VTO technology for apparel to improve fit accuracy and user satisfaction. Their clothes try-on options have reduced return rates by 22%, making online shopping more efficient for customers.
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Virtual try-on technology is shaping the future of retail by addressing the limitations of traditional shopping experiences. With advancements in AR and AI, virtual try-on solutions are becoming more accurate, affordable, and accessible.
As per a recent study, 71% of consumers prefer brands that offer AR-based shopping experiences. It highlights the growing demand for virtual-try-on technology. Moreover, the shift towards online shopping has accelerated due to global events, with eCommerce sales projected to reach $6.3 trillion by 2024.
Virtual try-on solution plays a crucial role in this growth by providing a bridge between digital convenience and in-store tangibility.
The debate between online shopping experience vs. In-store shopping experience is no longer just about convenience; it’s about delivering value, personalization, and satisfaction. Virtual try-on has transformed the way customers shop, making online experiences more engaging and reliable.
As the retail world continues to evolve, businesses must adapt to these changing preferences. Virtual try-on technology caters to current customer demands and positions brands for long-term success in the digital age.
To explore how your business can benefit, contact our team today to implement innovative virtual try-on technology.
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