The customer experience is one of the most critical factors determining any business’s success. In today’s digital age, customers expect a seamless and personalised experience, and companies constantly look for new ways to enhance it. One of the most exciting and innovative ways to achieve this is through Augmented Reality (AR).

Augmented Reality technology allows businesses to superimpose digital information on the real world, creating a more immersive and interactive customer experience. This technology has the potential to revolutionise the way businesses interact with their customers, and companies are already using it to improve customer engagement and satisfaction.

One of the most popular ways that companies are using Augmented Reality to enhance the customer experience is through the use of virtual try-ons. In the retail industry, this technology allows customers to virtually try on clothes, accessories, and makeup without needing to visit a store physically. This not only improves the shopping experience but also helps to reduce the number of returns. Companies like Sephora and L’Oréal have implemented virtual try-on technology in their mobile apps, allowing customers to see how different makeup looks on them before making a purchase.

Another way that companies are using Augmented Reality to enhance the customer experience is through virtual tours. This technology allows customers to virtually explore a property, product, or event before making a decision to visit or purchase. Companies like Wayfair and IKEA have implemented virtual tours in their mobile apps, allowing customers to see how furniture looks in their homes before purchasing.

Similarly, real estate companies are using virtual tours to allow potential buyers to explore properties from the comfort of their own homes. Augmented Reality is also being used to enhance the customer service experience. Companies like Lowe’s and Home Depot have implemented Augmented Reality technology in their mobile apps, allowing customers to view detailed product information, see how products look in different settings and even get virtual assistance from experts.

This not only improves the customer service experience but also helps to reduce the amount of time customers spend in the store searching for the right product. Lastly, Augmented Reality is also being used to enhance the customer experience by creating more interactive and engaging advertising.

Companies like McDonald’s and Coca-Cola have created AR-enabled ads that allow customers to interact with their products in a fun and exciting way. This improves brand awareness and encourages customers to visit their stores or websites to learn more about their products.

In conclusion, augmented reality technology has the potential to revolutionise the way businesses interact with their customers. From virtual try-ons to virtual tours, companies already use Augmented Reality to improve customer engagement and brand loyalty.

As Augmented Reality continues to evolve, so will the benefits. XPON futurist, Marcus Callon, suggests that “AR and VR are only scratching the surface of its future capabilities, with easy-to-use XR storytelling technologies such as Holoscribe bridging the gap between content creators and marketers and immersive XR content.”