Technology is playing a pivotal role in the world of retail. In an unprecedented wave of innovation, technological trends will have a major influence in the realm of e-commerce. 2D product images on e-commerce websites will no longer suffice. To keep pace with the fast-evolving trends in the online environments, 3D content is imperative to survive and thrive.

Having low barriers to entry, virtually anyone can start selling online. In order to differentiate themselves, business owners should invest in 3D marketing communication channels. With 3D content, the benefits to e-commerce business owners are vast and exponentially growing.

The Future of E-commerce is 3D

The two largest department store retailers in the United States, Walmart and Target, are utilizing 3D technology to enhance consumers’ shopping experiences. Walmart launched a new home experience which allows customers to take a 3D virtual shopping tour, showcasing close to 70 items from national brands as well as their own private label offerings. Customers are able to click on different products in each room to receive more information on the item of interest.

“Since launching the new home experience back in February, we’ve been hearing great feedback from customers”

Anthony Soohoo, SVP and Group General Manager, Home, Walmart U.S. e-commerce

Target also introduced a virtual shopping experience, allowing customers to browse through nearly 140 products, including rugs, sofas, wall hangings, and decorative throws. Target aims to help guests visualize size and scale of items as well as provide styling tips in a convenient, easy-to-use, and inspiring manner.

“There’s a ton of potential to create even richer, engaging digital experiences for our guests”

Mike McNamara, Chief Digital Officer, Target

Image taken from Target

With prominent industry leaders recognizing the importance of disrupting traditional media with innovative technology, it is evident that 3D content has a promising future in the world of e-commerce.

Why 3D content?

3D content optimizes the digital shopping experience for e-commerce business owners in its ability to bridge the gap between the real and virtual worlds. Studies have proven that in comparison to websites with 2D content, websites with 3D content lead to more positive attitudes toward the site, more positive brand attitudes, higher purchase intentions, and higher intentions to revisit the site (Choi and Taylor, 2014).

Creating an Experience

Product satisfaction is another key benefit of incorporating 3D technology into your website. By allowing the consumer to feel the experience and engage with the product through interactive features such as zoom and 360 degree rotation, businesses allow consumers to connect with their products.

Bridging Gaps between Expectations and Reality

3D content provides consumers with more realistic product visuals, closing the gap between expectations and reality, thereby vastly increasing customer satisfaction and decreasing product return rates. The costs associated with product returns are enormous. Not only do businesses incur the expenses pertaining to logistics, inventory, delivery and shipment, they also suffer the consequences of emotional costs associated with consumer dissatisfaction, including feelings of disappointment, frustration, and lack of connectedness to the retailer.

Third Time is Not A Charm, First Time Is

By making the first time order a win, business owners insure repeat customers by building on trust and reputation. This then translates into positive reviews and marketing through word of mouth. This positive cycle significantly decreases sales returns, instead adding to direct profits and future profits. The investment in 3D technology is a small price to pay for huge benefits.

It is clear to see that 3D content is the way to go when it comes to e-commerce. Let RestAR revolutionize the way you do business.

Augmented Reality

In 2017, the augmented reality market was valued at 5.85 billion USD. This astounding statistic could not have been realized without the impressive content that serves as its foundation. The tech giants including Google, Apple, Microsoft and Facebook are investing billions to bring AR to our smartphones and make AR a part of our day to day experiences.

These tech giants cannot achieve their visions without the help of 3D content. A key advantage is the ease at which 3D content can be integrated in augmented reality applications. Although 3D content is an essential component in the AR/VR market, 3D content is still useful outside of this market.

“AR can be really great, and we have been and continue to invest a lot in this…We think there are great things for customers and a great commercial opportunity.”

Tim Cook, CEO of Apple

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