DigitalBridge research highlights growing importance of AR tech

A third of UK consumers would be more likely to buy a high-ticket item on the spot if they could first use augmented reality (AR) to be sure what it looked like at home. 49%, meanwhile, think that being able to plan out, test and view multiple room designs and products before spending money would be the biggest benefit of this type of technology.

According to research commissioned by DigitalBridge, involving 2,000 Brits, 56% state that AR would speed up their decision making process because they can visualise not only how a room would look with new furniture, but how the rooms would be used. The tech is also increasing the trend of social shopping with 26% saying they like the idea of being able to instantly share their ideas directly with friends and family online, or via social media to get feedback, before they spend any money.

David Levine, CEO at DigitalBridge, says: “Redesigning a room like a kitchen, bedroom or bathroom can be a complex process and if people get it wrong it’s an expensive investment which is incredibly difficult to reverse. The major advantage of AR tools in retail over other technology, like virtual reality, is that they can help consumers to plan room layouts in detail, and visualise how a room will look and be used with new and existing furniture. AR allows consumers to try out multiple options and get a real idea of what purchases would look like before they have to make a decision, which is something retailers have long wanted to offer them. The consumer experience has become a vital aspect of commerce, especially online, and new technology is offering people access to an entirely new kind of experience.”