Why Should You Care About AR in Business & Marketing?
Ever scrolled through Instagram and seen an ad where you could try on sunglasses without leaving your couch?
That’s Augmented Reality (AR) in business and marketing.
It’s not sci-fi. It’s happening now. And businesses using AR are skyrocketing conversions, slashing return rates, and making customers stick around longer.
Let’s break it down and see how you can use AR to dominate your market.
What is AR in Business & Marketing?
AR blends the digital world with reality. It overlays computer-generated content onto the real world through a phone, tablet, or smart glasses.
For marketing? It’s a game-changer. Here’s why:
- Engagement skyrockets – Interactive ads keep users hooked.
- Conversions jump – Customers “try before they buy.”
- Brand experience goes next-level – Memorable = more likely to share.
AR isn’t coming to marketing. It’s already here.
How Businesses Are Using AR Right Now
1. Virtual Try-Ons (Fashion & Beauty)
Ever seen an online store that lets you “try on” makeup, glasses, or shoes before buying?
Big brands like Sephora, Nike, and Warby Parker are all in on this.
Why?
- More sales – Customers feel confident in their purchase.
- Fewer returns – No more guessing if those sunglasses fit your face.
- More fun – Shopping becomes an experience.
2. AR Product Previews (Furniture & Home Decor)
Buying furniture online = guessing game. AR fixes that.
Companies like IKEA and Wayfair let you drop virtual furniture into your space before buying.
- No surprises – See if that couch fits before you buy.
- Instant decision-making – Customers don’t hesitate when they KNOW it works.
- More engagement – People love playing with AR tools.
3. Interactive Packaging
What if a product’s packaging did more than just sit there?
Brands like Coca-Cola and Jack Daniel’s use AR to bring their labels to life.
Scan it and see:
- A brand story
- A fun animation
- A hidden discount code
Marketing that interacts = marketing that sticks.
4. AR Ads That Don’t Suck
People hate ads. Unless they’re fun.
AR turns boring ads into interactive experiences.
Example: Burger King’s “Burn That Ad” campaign. It let users point their phone at a McDonald’s ad, “burn” it with AR flames, and unlock a free Whopper.
That’s not an ad. That’s an experience.
And it worked.
How to Use AR in Your Business & Marketing
Step 1: Define Your Goal
Ask yourself:
- Do you want more sales? (AR try-ons, product previews)
- Do you want brand awareness? (AR social media filters, interactive ads)
- Do you want engagement? (Gamification, AR packaging, QR code experiences)
Start with a goal. Then build AR around it.
Step 2: Choose Your AR Tech
Different AR tools for different goals:
- Social media AR filters – Instagram, Snapchat, TikTok
- Web-based AR – No app needed (perfect for product previews)
- Mobile apps – Deeper experiences (good for AR shopping, loyalty programs)
Step 3: Keep It Simple
Nobody wants a complicated AR experience. Make it easy:
- One click, and they’re in.
- No downloads, if possible.
- Clear instructions.
Step 4: Promote Your AR Experience
What’s the point if nobody knows about it?
Use social media, email marketing, and influencers to get eyes on your AR campaign.
The Future of AR in Marketing
This isn’t a trend. It’s the future.
Here’s where it’s heading:
- AR Shopping Malls – Walk through a virtual store from your phone.
- Hyper-Personalized AR Ads – See products in your home, on your body, in your lifestyle before buying.
- AI + AR – AI will suggest AR experiences based on your preferences.
It’s coming faster than you think.
FAQs on AR in Business & Marketing
1. Is AR expensive for businesses?
Not anymore. With platforms like 8thWall, Spark AR, and WebAR, even small businesses can create AR experiences without breaking the bank.
2. Does AR really improve sales?
Yes. Brands using AR have seen conversion rates jump up to 94%.
3. Do customers actually use AR?
People love it. 61% of consumers prefer shopping with AR options. And that number is climbing.
4. Can AR work for service-based businesses?
Absolutely.
- Real estate – Virtual property tours.
- Fitness – AR workout guides.
- Education – AR learning experiences.
5. How do I start using AR in my business?
- Pick a goal.
- Choose an AR tool.
- Make it simple & fun.
- Promote it everywhere.
Final Thoughts: AR in Business & Marketing = Game Changer
If you’re not using AR in business & marketing, you’re missing out.
It’s engaging. It’s interactive. It’s what customers expect now.
Try it. See how it transforms your brand. And stay ahead of the competition.
Because AR isn’t the future anymore. It’s the NOW.
