Buying in to the AR experience

The pandemic and lockdown restrictions sparked a huge shift in how we buy our clothes as more and more people turned to shopping online. Some fashion stores have struggled to attract customers back into their bricks and mortar outlets but new research suggests augmented reality (AR) could play a role in winning them back.

A team from Loughborough University tested prototypes of two AR shopping assistants that have been designed to help customers in physical stores. They trialled the apps in a mock-up shop created for the project.

They found the AR needed to deliver significant functional benefits as well as include features which aim to increase enjoyment. The results of their study identified ten design solutions for AR shopping apps, based around aims including convenience, greater accessibility and a seamless shopping experience.

Dr Chris Parker, of Loughborough University’s Design School, said: “If we can design better AR apps, retailers may adopt the technology for in-store use and increase customer footfall.”

Read more about the research