Virtual Consultation
By Benji, Content ManagerJust like every downside has an upside, nearly every positive experience has some sort of negative aspect as well. Take shopping for example. Some prefer to shop online, and use article tips to help them select the best items. But others love to physically shop and enjoy the experience of it all. Only, needless to say, it would be very hard to find someone who will admit to favoring hauling piles of clothing to the dressing room, and trying things on over and over again. Being able to see how clothing or jewelry would look on you without actually having to try each piece on and hoping that it fits perfectly, or dragging the clothing with you to the dressing room would make a world of a difference.
Luckily Samsung is on the same page here and has come up with a product that may just revolutionize the way we shop. Introducing the Samsung Display Mirror: a mirror with a transparent OLED display panel capable of displaying three-dimensional images of the viewer. But wait, there’s more! Not only does it display your ‘reflection’ inclusive of cloths or jewelry you are ‘trying on,’ the 3D reflection can then be manipulated through slight gestures, resulting in images of the viewer dressed in a variety of outfits and accessories from several angles. No schlep, no mess, no hassle. Additionally, the mirror remains fingerprint-less and the store does not have to risk having items ruined or even stolen by shoppers.
The combination of tech and marketing obviously already exists, for example not too long ago, Rio Tinto's Argyle, offered users the ability to enjoy a 3d virtual tour of the diamond mine. However, especially with today's technology, each new smart object is always welcomed with open arms.
How It Works
The concept sounds fabulous. The question, is, how does such a mirror work? Using an integrated Intel Real Sense camera, the mirror’s OLED display provides a three-dimensional image of the user with a 75% reflectance, which is almost like a real mirror. The colors are extremely vivid and the mirror provides a very impressive response time.
The Possibilities
Having a mirror that is essentially a virtual wardrobe can offer unlimited possibilities to both businesses and consumers alike. While the focus is presently on the fashion and jewelry arenas, these types of mirrors can have a place in car dealerships, airports, and other locations. The Samsung Display Mirror can especially be appreciated in the jewelry world, where a lot is at stake. One cannot expect a customer to buy a piece of jewelry without trying it on, but at the same time, every time a display case is unlocked and a piece is removed, there is a very real risk involved. Having this type of mirror around in jewelry stores can allow the customer to browse endless items and receive the “trying on experience” without actually handling extremely expensive jewels. It’s a win-win for both the business and the consumer.
In terms of translating this genius concept into realistic ventures, Samsung is already ahead of the game. The technology giant has secured a solid customer: Mirum, a global digital marketing agency. The product sold under their name will be called Magic Mirror 2.0 and will use the amazing technology of the Samsung Display Mirror. Mirum will be targeting businesses in the fashion and jewelry industries, such as the Chinese Chow Sang Sang Group.
For us eCommerce companies, I think the next question will be when there will be an app available that one can upload to their phone and enable themselves to 'try on' clothing and jewelry from the comfort of their own home!
