Instagram is expanding their push into online shopping with a brand new augmented reality shopping feature that allows consumers to “try on” products digitally before buying them.
Earlier this year, Instagram introduced a new checkout feature that lets you buy products directly on Instagram without ever leaving the app
Now, with the new Spark AR integration, users will be able to virtually “try on” products before making a purchase in the app!
Here’s everything you need to know about the new Instagram AR shopping feature:
How to Shop with Augmented Reality on Instagram
As successful as Instagram has been at building an online shopping platform, some products just can’t be adequately described with a photo or video.
But thanks to augmented reality, shoppers are able to virtually try on products before they purchase them.
While not wildly popular, Google, Facebook, Snapchat, and recently Youtube have all incorporated AR shopping features into their platforms – and now it’s Instagram’s turn!
Similar to how they initially rolled out custom augmented reality filters, Instagram is currently beta testing an AR shopping feature with select brands brands like Warby Parker, MAC Cosmetics, Ray-Ban, and NARS Cosmetics.
These brands will allow Instagram users to “try on” products before they checkout on Instagram.
How to Use Instagram’s AR Shopping Feature:
1. Start by tapping on a product tag in an Instagram story or post from one of the brands listed above:
2. On the product description page that opens up, you’ll find a new “Try It On” option:
3. Tapping the button will open your Instagram Stories camera with an AR effect featuring the product.
Depending on the product you’re browsing, you may also have the option to choose different colors and variations.
4. You’ll also find a button at the top of the camera that allows you to add the product to your shopping cart and proceed with checking out:
Instagram is already a major online shopping destination, but the merging of augmented relatiy and shopping is bound to open a floodgate of new opportunities for brands!
For example, furniture brands can use AR to show what their products would look like in people’s homes while brands can create virtual fitting rooms, allowing people to try on shirts, sunglasses, or entire outfits to see how it fits their shape and style.
Want to learn more about augmented reality and Instagram? We have you covered in our guide to Spark AR on Instagram – including how to make your own filter!
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