Virtual try-on startup Vyking.io has launched an in-store augmented reality (AR) solution called Magic Mirror that will enable consumers to easily visualise footwear through an in-store smart mirror. Activated by walking up to a full-length, digital mirror, customers can virtually try before they buy footwear quickly and conveniently.

Vyking said the solution also has the potential to decrease waiting times for customers and reduce pressure on staff in physical stores as customers are able to see how a pair of trainers or shoes look before sales assistants need to retrieve them from the stockroom. The customer chooses the pair they’d like to try via an in-store display on a tablet before the 3D model is beamed into the mirror for them to see how the shoes look on their own feet.

For stores with a smaller footprint, the technology offers the chance for retailers to display an infinite product catalogue for customers, with order-to-ship capability, and allows buying and merchandising teams to better understand which lines are most popular in real-time.

The solution also offers omnichannel marketing possibilities as the technology can be deployed in other physical locations such as billboards, bus stops or window displays, enabling retailers to capture casual browsers as well as those entering their physical locations.

“The pandemic put a lot of pressure on brands to innovate their online platforms,” said Vyking CEO and Co-founder, Matthew Klimpke. “We saw many investing in AR to create a more immersive and engaging experience for their customers – and with good reason, as we have seen virtual try-on solutions contribute to up to a 50 per cent increase in conversions and 7 per cent reduction in returns. 2022 saw us pass over 30m annual uses of our VTO (Virtual Try On) solution, a clear indication of the utility and engagement 3D and AR provide.

“Now, as shoppers are returning to the high street, it makes sense to bring the best of that online experience into physical stores. Our Magic Mirror allows retailers to enable both proximity and personalisation for their customers and their products. It also makes more efficient use of store footprints and opens up the potential for a real omnichannel experience that goes to where their customers are.”