What is Augmented Reality (AR)?
Augmented Reality (AR) is enhanced reality that creates a physical environment that does not exist. AR environments are typically far off from the physical world in a way that the new environments created are new. AR is technically a way to see the real world – either directly or via a device such as a camera creating a visual of the real world – and augmenting that real world visual with computer-generated elements such as graphics, audio and video.
What is Mixed Reality (MR)?
Mixed Reality (MR) merges the real world and the virtual world together to create a more immersive experience than ever. MR is a combination of virtual reality and augmented reality. It creates a world in which more than one person can participate in an immersive environment and collaborate on a common task together.
It is sort of an enhanced form of augmented reality that involves both physical and virtual worlds. MR is like an icing on the cake; a physical world which can be enhanced or augmented beyond your normal immersive experience. MR pushes the limits of AR to work toward achieving the goal of unrestricted, limitless environments.
So, What is AR and MR in Marketing?
A basic definition is, integrating AR and MR technology to embed and embody marketing content in a customer environment. Alternatively, it can be thought of as a marketing or sales strategy that allows brands to help consumers interact with them and make smarter purchasing decisions and reduce returns.
6 Benefits to using AR and MR in Marketing
Here are just some of the many benefits of using AR in marketing.
1. Promote the Brand Effectively
Marketing and advertising campaigns are generally centered upon the idea of promoting the brand and products/services as much as possible. Augmented reality and mixed reality ensure that these ads are more immersive, innovative, and effective and therefore serves as a powerful tool for driving sales and increasing revenue.
2. Widen Market Reach
Augmented reality or mixed reality-based advertisements have a unique appeal that grabs instant attention and positively impacts viewers. AR and MR allows creating dedicated marketing campaigns for particular purposes and goals. Easy application and high appeal mean such ads get wider exposure and reach.
3. Create Buzz Around the Brand
While AR and MR applications formerly focused on direct sales tactics, today’s augmented reality and mixed reality marketing strategies enhance brand identity and exposure. As people prefer brands that keep them satisfied and entertained, a well-designed AR and MR experience can create exposure that delivers lasting results. Businesses can craft some well-thought, fun experiences using AR and MR to create the much-needed buzz in this competitive landscape. A perfect example is Uber’s AR campaign in Zurich, where riders were amazed by the virtual adventures at the central station, resulting in more than 1 million views on YouTube.
4. Deliver Immersive, Interactive Experiences
AR and MR marketing enables advertisers to add a personal touch to mobile apps and other materials content. For example, shoppers can scan elements at a supermarket to access an AR app and see the sale prices, discount coupons, and recommended products and combos for better decision-making. Augmented and mixed reality marketing also helps deliver value by offering personalized content that matches customers’ unique needs.
5. Guide Purchase Decisions
Interactive, immersive AR and MR helps marketers create engaging content and measure engagement rates. As a result, brands that use the latest technology and tools to win the shoppers ultimately become the preferred choices. Consider an example of re-decorating a room with new furniture pieces. While users are likely to go through websites and magazines, they might get a different outcome than desired. With AR, they can point the phone in the space and get a visual idea of how the room will look with the pieces they are eyeing. This removes all the tedious trial-and-errors and disappointments. Such a unique marketing approach is a great way to help buyers make informed decisions and ultimately become their favourite brands.
6. Drive more sales
Seeing and testing a product through augmented and mixed reality helps reduce product uncertainty while increasing buyer confidence and sales. For example, sporting goods stores often use AR to help customers test golf clubs before buying, and the software can even provide tips on how to improve their swing.
NPN Tech – Leading Tech-Enabled Marketing Solutions Partner
At NPN Tech, we go beyond being a technology company. We are the leading tech-enabled marketing solution partner, leveraging cutting-edge technologies such as AI, AR, MR, XR, Volumetric video and Holographic. We are committed to drive industry transformation through innovative approaches. In today’s highly competitive landscape, we create innovative solutions that empowers businesses to differentiate themselves and leave a lasting impact.
Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you succeed with tech-enabled marketing solutions.
