In the fast-evolving technological world, Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) will impact and contribute immensely in all fields. This technology once considered cutting-edge, is now ready to make an effective comeback in 2024. This article explores the past benefits, uses in marketing, and future appearance of AR and VR along with the changes it creates in the audience and the user experiences.
What is AR and VR?
AR stands for Augmented Reality (AR) and is simply defined as the enhanced or improved version of the surrounding real world using computer-generated elements. It can be created using devices such as smartphones, tablets, or AR glasses. AR imitates the real world and user’s views by adding graphics, images, 3D models, etc.
VR is a computer-created environment, which makes the users feel a real sense of touch and physical presence in the virtual environment. This virtual effect can be experienced through a Virtual Reality headset.
Beneficial rise of AR and VR
VR and AR had begun earlier but made a prominent presence in the 20th century with their innovative devices. Sensorama and head-mounted devices were developed using VR which also faced challenges like high cost, speed, etc. AR had applications in fighter jets, navigation, and AR games.
In recent years AR and VR have gained applications in many fields like gaming, medicine, marketing, education, etc
- AR/VR in Health care: AR in medicine has a specific use in surgery, where surgeons can get real-time advice in the process to improve accuracy. VR is useful in therapy, medical training, and practices without risk.
- AR/VR in gaming: One of the most used VR applications is gaming, as it provides interactive and real experience in gaming. The most popular games are Beat Saber, Tetris Effect, and Population: One. AR is used in entertainment sectors like Pokémon Go and also the filters of Snapchat, Instagram, etc use this for entertainment.
AR and VR in Marketing
Marketing is understanding the target customers and promoting the product of a company on the requirements of the buyer. AR and VR have made marketing easier and more effective through their special technology.
VR marketing is very useful in connecting customers and the company as they can feel the real product virtually. Showcasing the available products and their development through VR can attract the customer and also can be used for the feedback system. Normally marketing with ads is beneficial but when you make customers feel the impact of real experience the equations will change and the profit will increase automatically.
AR is one of the useful sales and marketing strategies where people can view the product with a single tap on a mobile screen. Trial before buying which is a new shopping way with clothing, makeup, etc using AR this is easily done where the branding and sales probability are high.
Benefits of AR/VR in marketing
- The renewal of AR and VR in marking strategies with new technology can create a greater user experience and accessibility of products. This can be created using updated hardware and graphics tools which is cost-effective.
- Marketing is useful when done in an attractive way to grab customers, AR/VR provides you with a unique way of showcasing the products which helps in branding and personalized user experience.
- AR can also make a major impact on B2B sales where the older methods used salespersons, brochures, etc whereas augmented reality visuals the products in 360 Degree virtual experience.
- AR is effective in applying the customization user option example Nike allows you to customize your shoes according to your wish and hence provides greater user satisfaction.
Looking Ahead
AR and VR are used in many fields, but industries like real estate, fashion, and tourism can be more beneficial in the upcoming days. In 2024, Apple will implement VR/AR in the picture and announce the release date of a Vision Pro display. Google, Samsung, and Qualcomm are also likely to launch reality headsets.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the comeback of AR and VR will bring prominent changes and trends in the market that provide great opportunities for businesses to connect the bond with customers in different ways. By analyzing the needs and expectations of the audience, one can adopt and see the massive changes in the business using AR and VR technology.