Both augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) have their place in the world, but when it comes to real-world usage, that’s where it’s hard to argue that AR might have an edge. In fact Snapchat is doing a good example of proving just that by launching a new Snapchat Lens together with musician Ariana Grande that will let fans try on her merchandise before buying it.
This lens was created in conjunction of the launch of Grande’s latest album, Sweetener, where fans will be able to try on the Sweetener-branded merchandise (which comes in the form of a tied-dyed face mask) via the Lens. If you like what you see, you can tap the “Shop” button that will let you buy the merch directly for $20, which also includes presale tickets to Grande’s 2019 tour, and if you’re in the US, you will also get a link to download the album.
Snapchat’s latest collaboration with Grande is proof of how AR can be used in the world today. Pokemon GO was a great example of how AR can be used for gaming, but this Snapchat Lens also shows how useful it will be for shopping. Snapchat and Grande aren’t the first to use AR for shopping purposes.
Previously companies such as Amazon also used AR to help customers check out products before buying, and IKEA also launched an AR app that let shoppers place virtual furniture in their homes so that they can get an idea of fit and color-matching before purchasing.
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