Online jewelry retailer Ice hops onto the augmented reality (AR) bandwagon with a mobile app that allows shoppers to virtually “try on” rings and bracelets before purchasing. It is currently only available for iPhones while an Android version of the app will be available later this year.
AR is a live direct or indirect view of a physical, real-world environment whose elements are augmented by computer-generated sensory input. In this case Ice is using the technology via a mobile app to provide digital shoppers the opportunity to view the Ice catalog of jewelry products, select an item of their liking and opt to virtually "try on" the piece. Utilizing their personal mobile device camera, a picture of the shoppers hand will act as the landscape for the ring or bracelet of interest. The desired piece of jewelry can then be super imposed on the picture. Ice shoppers will be invited to then share their “try it on” pictures with friends and family via email, Facebook and Twitter, or add to their wish list.
“It's about enhancing our customer's experience, customer engagement with our products as well as overall conversion. For the first time, we are offering our customers with the complete shopping experience,” said Shmuel Gniwisch, CEO of Ice. “No longer will online shoppers have to question "will this look good on me?" they will have the answer right on their smartphone desktop and be able to ask their family and friend's thoughts from around the globe with just a few clicks.”
You can find the app by following this link.