The store is working with a technology provider to use iPads for a unique AR experience for shoppers.
ArmorActive, an enterprise level tablet solutions company, has partnered with a Utah sporting goods store, Scheels, in order to implement an augmented reality iPad kiosk in its location in Sandy, to provide shoppers with a unique experience while they consider their purchases.
The kiosk is made up of many different elements to create an AR experience for customers.
The press release distributed by ArmorActive has described the augmented reality kiosk as having a mount and a stand, on which the iPad is secured. That is positioned across from a scenic backdrop, where there are handheld miniature green screens. It is the tablet computer uses the technology company’s Evolve enclosure to keep it secure, and backup power solutions were installed into the stand holding the iPad, so that it would always have enough juice to run for the full business day.
Shoppers at the sports store can select from a number of digital props to create the augmented reality scene.
The customers fill the green screen with digital props after having their photos taken in front of the backdrop. These pictures can be shared with friends and can be emailed directly to the customer who starred in the photo.
According to the initial statistics released by the companies in the press release, Scheels is sending between 250 and 400 emails from the customers’ use of the augmented reality kiosk every day.
The CMO of ArmorActive, Nick Ames, has explained that “This new photo experience is very popular with Scheels’ customers and a smart marketing strategy overall.” Ames also went on to say that “At any time, there are groups waiting to take their turn with the application. Users love playing with the iPad and sending the pictures to their friends, spreading the Scheels brand and advertising their customer experience.”
This is a successful marketing use of augmented reality technology as it is encouraging the customers to be actively engaged in the experience while spreading the word to family and friends. This is a highly desirable result, particularly at this critical time of year, at the cusp of the holiday shopping season.