Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) have incredibly transformed the way we live our lives. These massive advancements in technology have fortunately blurred the lines between reality and the infinite realm of possibilities. Needless to say, these cutting-edge technologies have found valuable applications in the business and marketing fields, as well. Companies are using AR and VR services to the best of their abilities in order to capitalize on the enhanced consumer experience these technologies provide for a business or campaign.
Confused and overwhelmed? Don’t worry, we will help you understand the application of AR and VR better by highlighting some examples of brands employing them in their marketing campaigns. This is done in order to provide a better consumer experience through an enhanced interface between the brand and the consumer.
McDonald’s, for instance, introduced New Happy Meal boxes that could be folded into a virtual reality cardboard headset. To enjoy the VR experience, the users could download the McDonald’s virtual reality app and put their smartphones in the VR headset.
Coca Cola, on the other hand, partnered with Shazam to launch a Drinkable Ad campaign. Whenever the users see a Coca Cola commercial on their Charter Spectrum TV, they could launch the Shazam app on their phone and see coke being poured into a glass on their mobile screens. This ‘glass of coke’ could be redeemed for an actual free coke at any retail store.
Another VR campaign example is the Marriott Teleporter Campaign, which virtually transports the users to the actual 7-star hotel in Dubai, letting them enjoy the magnificent view of Palm Jumeirah.
You must be thinking, why should I invest so much into AR and VR? How profitable will it be to my brand? Well, here’s some quick data: the Virtual Reality industry is expected to reach $30 billion and the Augmented Reality industry is expected to reach $90 billion by 2020. With such large investments pouring in, there has got to be some mettle to support these technologies, don’t you think?
AR and VR have a visibly positive impact on your marketing campaign. Since digital marketing fosters on enhanced and personalized customer experience, you can use these technologies to give your consumer a new, different and better experience with your brand. For instance, Pokémon Go as a game became popular worldwide mainly due to the virtual reality interface. Users could catch Pokémon in actual, physical spaces and at real time locations, giving them a much better gaming experience.
As a brand, your top priority is always customer engagement and satisfaction. What better than AR and VR to help you leverage that? You would not only have given your consumer a long-lasting experience (thereby fostering loyalty) but you’d also have an edge over your competitors by using the latest, most relevant technologies. A classic win-win situation, isn’t it?
Digital marketing is a constantly evolving field with newer and newer technologies being added. It’s the ultimate step up or step out question. If you don’t keep up, natural selection is going to come for you. Don’t fall behind in the race. Make sure you are updated with the latest innovations in the field and try to incorporate them in your strategies to the best of your abilities.
Leave a Reply