How To Develop An Ar App Like IKEA Palace

The retail industry is in the midst of a profound transformation driven by the increasing demand for convenient and immersive shopping experiences. In response to this evolving landscape, developing an AR shopping app like IKEA Place has emerged as a groundbreaking solution. 

IKEA, renowned for its forward-thinking approach, has successfully leveraged AR technology through its IKEA Place app, which allows users to virtually place furniture in their own homes. This immersive experience empowers customers to visualize how products would fit within their space, leading to heightened sales and improved satisfaction.

By seamlessly blending the virtual and physical realms, an AR shopping app has the potential to redefine the retail business by offering unparalleled interactivity and personalization. As a retailer, embracing this technology and developing your own AR shopping app akin to IKEA Place can be a game-changer for your business. It enables you to tap into the transformative capabilities of AR, propelling your retail operations to new heights.

In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the visionary future of retail and delve into the essential elements and advantages of creating an AR shopping app that revolutionizes the industry. Join us as we embark on this journey, uncovering the immense potential that lies within the convergence of AR technology and retail innovation.

What Is IKEA Place App?

IKEA Place is an innovative augmented reality (AR) application developed by IKEA, which allows users to virtually visualize and place furniture pieces within their living spaces using the camera on their mobile devices. Introduced in late 2017, initially for iOS devices and later expanding to Android, IKEA Place revolutionizes the furniture shopping experience by enabling users to digitally “try-out” furniture before making a purchase.

This innovative AR app presents a vast furniture catalog featuring various items categorized and priced for convenience. Users can seamlessly customize their virtual furniture placements, adjusting position and rotation as desired with the ability to select different colors and styles. The app accurately estimates room size, ensuring that the 3D furniture models align perfectly with the physical space. Users can capture and save images of their augmented reality arrangements, facilitating easy sharing with friends and family for feedback.

Moreover, IKEA Place grants users direct access to purchase selected items via a provided link, seamlessly connecting the virtual shopping experience with the online store. Although the catalog primarily showcases popular and recently added items, IKEA continues to expand its offerings to provide a comprehensive range of furniture choices.

How Is IKEA Using AR To Transform The Shopping Experience?

The business model for the IKEA Place AR app revolves around enhancing the customer experience, driving sales, and reinforcing brand loyalty. Here are the key elements of the business model:

1. App Accessibility

IKEA Place offers the app for free, ensuring broad accessibility to a wide range of users. This enables potential customers to easily download and use the app, eliminating any financial barriers to entry.

2. Furniture Catalog

The app provides a comprehensive catalog of IKEA furniture items. While the app itself is free, it serves as a platform to showcase and promote IKEA’s extensive product range. This catalog serves as a powerful marketing tool, enticing users to explore and consider purchasing IKEA products.

3. Augmented Reality Technology

By leveraging augmented reality technology, IKEA Place offers a unique and immersive shopping experience. The app enables users to virtually place furniture items in their own spaces, increasing customer engagement and assisting in purchase decision-making.

4. Seamless Integration With Online Store

The app seamlessly integrates with IKEA’s online store. Once users have virtually placed and selected furniture items through the app, they are provided with direct links to purchase those items on IKEA’s website. This integration streamlines the purchasing process, driving sales conversions and facilitating a seamless customer journey.

5. Upselling And Cross-selling Opportunities

Through the app, IKEA has the opportunity to showcase related products and accessories alongside the selected furniture items. This presents upselling and cross-selling opportunities, encouraging users to consider additional products that complement their chosen items and increase the overall order value.

6. Data Collection And Analysis

The app allows IKEA to collect valuable data on user preferences, interactions, and purchasing behavior. This data can be analyzed to gain insights into customer preferences, popular products, and market trends. Such insights can inform strategic decision-making, inventory management, and targeted marketing campaigns.

7. Brand Loyalty And Customer Engagement

By providing a cutting-edge AR shopping experience, IKEA Place aims to enhance brand loyalty and customer engagement. The app creates a memorable and interactive connection between customers and the IKEA brand, fostering a positive perception and encouraging repeat business.

In general, the IKEA Place AR app presents a novel approach for IKEA to engage with customers and drive revenue. While the app holds promise as a valuable tool for IKEA, its ultimate success is yet to be determined. 

However, IKEA may encounter certain challenges when implementing its business model for the IKEA Place AR app. These include:

• User Adoption: As a novel and innovative product, encouraging widespread user adoption may pose a challenge for IKEA. Efforts will be required to educate and entice customers to embrace the app.
• Technical Complexity: Developing and maintaining an AR app entails technical complexities. IKEA must ensure compatibility across various devices and maintain the accuracy and realism of the furniture’s 3D models.
• Privacy Concerns: Privacy issues may arise as users consider the implications of employing an AR app. Addressing these concerns and establishing trust is crucial for IKEA to gain user confidence.

Despite these obstacles, IKEA has the potential to achieve success with the IKEA Place AR app. Its broad customer reaches, and revenue-generating capabilities offer promising prospects for IKEA’s business objectives.

How Does IKEA Place App Work?

IKEA Place leverages augmented reality (AR) technology to provide users with a realistic and interactive furniture shopping experience. Here is a breakdown of how the IKEA Place app works:

1. AR Visualization

The app utilizes the device’s camera to create a live view of the user’s physical environment. By scanning the room, the app creates a virtual representation of the space.

2. Furniture Catalog

IKEA Place offers a comprehensive catalog of furniture items that users can choose from. The catalog includes a wide range of products, including sofas, tables, chairs, shelves, and more.

3. Virtual Placement

Users can select furniture items from the catalog and place them virtually within their scanned room. The app uses advanced AR algorithms to accurately position the 3D models of furniture in real time, considering factors such as size and orientation.

4. Realistic Rendering

The app renders the furniture models with high-quality visuals, providing a realistic representation of how the selected items would look in the user’s space. This includes details like textures, colors, and finishes.

5. Customization Options

Users can customize the furniture items within the app. They can change the colors, experiment with different styles, and explore various configurations to find the perfect fit for their space.

6. Accurate Sizing

IKEA Place employs sophisticated measurement techniques to ensure that the virtual furniture items are accurately sized in relation to the user’s room. This allows users to assess whether the furniture will fit properly in terms of dimensions and scale.

7. AR Capturing

Users have the ability to capture AR images of their virtual furniture arrangements within the app. This feature enables them to save and share their designs with others for feedback or inspiration.

8. Seamless Purchase Integration

The app seamlessly integrates with IKEA’s online store, allowing users to directly purchase the furniture items they have placed in their virtual space. By tapping on the selected item, users are redirected to the corresponding product page on the IKEA website.

Why Must Businesses Invest In AR Shopping Apps Like IKEA?

The value of the AR software market is projected to reach $137.14 billion by 2028. There is a significant demand for software that enables the creation of immersive AR experiences. By investing in an AR shopping app, businesses can leverage the upward trajectory of the AR software market and harness the power of transformative and engaging AR experiences to enhance customer engagement and drive sales.

Moreover, based on data from Statista, the AR software segment is the largest in the world, with a projected market volume of $11.58 billion USD by 2023. The overall revenues of the AR/VR market are also set to reach an impressive $31.12 billion USD by the end of 2023. Furthermore, experts estimate an impressive compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 13.72% between 2023 and 2027, leading to a projected market volume of US$52.05 billion by 2027.

In fact, as per the Snap and Ipsos MORI report, customers exhibit a higher inclination to make purchases from companies that offer immersive AR experiences. The report suggests that 64% of consumers express that the incorporation of AR technology into their shopping journey enhances their loyalty toward a brand.

Thus, if your business is involved in any aspect of the furniture industry, whether it’s selling, designing, or assembling furniture, investing in an AR shopping app can bring significant benefits. 

The primary objective of AR in consumer-facing applications is to enhance customer engagement by infusing creativity into marketing and sales processes. By creating an AR app similar to IKEA Place specifically tailored to your business, in collaboration with a skilled development team, you unlock the potential to exponentially boost your sales. 

Furthermore, an AR shopping app sets your business apart by showcasing your commitment to innovation and customer-centric experiences. It differentiates you from competitors and positions your brand as a leader in leveraging cutting-edge technology.

Ultimately, an AR shopping app opens up new avenues for global reach and accessibility. Customers from anywhere in the world can explore your furniture catalog and engage with your brand, expanding your customer base beyond geographical constraints.

Benefits For Retail Businesses From The AR Shopping App

The AR shopping app, such as IKEA Place, offers several benefits for retail businesses. Here are some key advantages:

1. Enhanced Customer Engagement

AR shopping apps provide a highly engaging and interactive experience for customers. By allowing them to virtually place and visualize products in their own spaces, the app creates a deeper connection between customers and the products they are considering to purchase.

2. Increased Sales Conversion

The immersive nature of AR shopping apps can significantly impact sales conversion rates. When customers can see how products will look and fit in their own environments, they gain more confidence in their purchasing decisions. This reduces uncertainty and hesitation, leading to higher conversion rates and increased sales.

3. Reduced Product Returns

AR shopping apps help mitigate the issue of product returns. By enabling customers to virtually try out products before making a purchase, they can accurately assess how well the item matches their needs and existing decor. This leads to fewer instances of incorrect sizing, mismatched styles, or unsuitable color choices, ultimately reducing product returns.

4. Improved Customer Satisfaction

The ability to preview products in a realistic and personalized manner enhances customer satisfaction. AR shopping apps enable customers to make informed decisions, ensuring that the chosen items meet their expectations. This leads to happier customers who are more likely to become repeat buyers and brand advocates.

5. Cost Savings On Physical Showrooms

Traditional retail businesses often invest significant resources in maintaining physical showrooms or displays. AR shopping apps can reduce these costs by providing a virtual showroom experience. Customers can explore a wide range of products without the need for physical inventory, allowing businesses to allocate resources more efficiently.

6. Global Reach And Convenience

AR shopping apps transcend geographical boundaries, enabling customers from anywhere in the world to access and explore the product catalog. This expands the potential customer base for retail businesses and offers convenience to customers who may not have physical stores nearby. Customers can shop at their convenience, anytime and anywhere, enhancing overall accessibility.

7. Data Analytics And Insights

AR shopping apps can collect valuable data on customer preferences, interactions, and behavior. Retail businesses can leverage this data to gain insights into customer preferences, popular product choices, and areas for improvement. This information can inform inventory management, marketing strategies, and product development decisions, leading to better business outcomes.

Types Of Augmented Reality (AR) In Shopping Applications

Here are the different types of AR that can be combined and tailored to create unique and engaging AR shopping experiences, enhancing the way customers interact with products and brands. 

1. Marker-based AR

This type of AR uses visual markers or QR codes to trigger interactive experiences. It can be used in AR shopping apps to allow users to scan markers on products or catalogs to view 3D models or additional information about the items.

2. Markerless AR

Markerless AR relies on location-based data and sensors to detect and track the user’s environment. It can be utilized in AR shopping apps to enable users to scan their physical environment and place virtual objects, such as furniture or decor items, in their desired location.

3. Projection-based AR

Although primarily used for events and movies, projection-based AR can have applications in AR shopping. It can be used to project digital content onto surfaces within a physical store, providing additional information or creating immersive experiences for shoppers.

4. Superimposition-based AR

This type of AR overlays digital content onto existing physical objects or features. In an AR shopping context, it can be employed to provide customers with directions, guidance, or product details by overlaying virtual information onto the environment or specific products.

5. Location-based AR

While commonly used in gaming, location-based AR can also be applied to AR shopping experiences. It can be utilized to create virtual scavenger hunts or promotional activities within a physical store or shopping area, encouraging users to interact with products and collect rewards.

Must-have Features For AR Shopping App

In order to ensure the effective creation of your mobile app for video editing, it is vital to carefully consider the fundamental functionalities that should be incorporated. 

1. Must-have Features For User Panel 

1. User Registration: Allows users to create an account to access personalized features and store their preferences.
2. Product Catalog: Displays a comprehensive catalog of furniture and other products available for virtual placement.
3. Search Functionality: Enables users to search for specific products based on keywords, categories, or filters.
4. AR Visualization: Provides the ability to virtually place furniture items in the user’s real-world environment.
5. Product Customization: Allows users to customize furniture items by selecting colors, materials, sizes, etc.
6. Wishlist: Enables users to create and manage a list of favorite products for future reference.
7. Social Sharing: Integrates social media sharing functionality to allow users to share their AR experiences.
8. Reviews and Ratings: Allows users to provide feedback, ratings, and reviews for products and overall app experience.
9. Secure Payment: Provides secure and convenient payment options for users to complete purchases.
10. Order Tracking: Enables users to track the status of their orders and view shipment details.

2. Must-have Features For Admin Panel

1. Product Management: Allows administrators to add, edit, and update product information, including images and details.
2. User Management: Provides functionality to manage user accounts, including user registration and account verification.
3. Order Management: Enables administrators to view, manage, and process customer orders.
4. Inventory Management: Helps administrators track and manage product inventory, including stock levels and availability.
5. Logistic Management: Streamlines the logistics and delivery process for efficient order fulfillment.
6. Analytics and Reports: Provides data-driven insights and reports on user engagement, sales performance, and app usage.
7. Content Management: Allows administrators to manage app content, including product descriptions, images, and categories.
8. Promotions and Offers: Enables administrators to create and manage promotional campaigns and discount offers.
9. Customer Support: Provides a dedicated interface for administrators to handle customer inquiries and support requests.

3. Basic Features To Include In AR Shopping Mobile App

1. Search Options: Enables users to search for furniture using various criteria.
2. Dimension Scanning: Provides accurate measurements of the user’s space for precise furniture placement.
3. Push Notifications: Sends alerts and updates about new products, sales, and discounts.
4. Object Manipulation: Allows users to scan their surroundings and virtually position furniture items.
5. Multilingual Support: Supports multiple languages for a wider user base.
6. Multi-currency Support: Displays prices in different currencies.
7. 360-Degree Product View: Allows users to examine products from all angles.
8. Screenshots and Sharing: Enables users to capture and share product images.
9. Reviews and Ratings: Lets users provide feedback on products.
10. Delivery Tracking: Allows users to monitor the progress of their orders.
11. Order History: Maintains a record of past orders for reference.
12. Device Compatibility Check: Ensures compatibility with various devices and platforms.

4. Advanced Features To Include In AR Shopping Mobile App

1. AR Mode: Enables users to visualize furniture in their own space using augmented reality.
2. Social Media Integration: Allows users to share products and login/sign-up through social media platforms.
3. User Behavior Tracking: Monitors user preferences and behavior to offer personalized recommendations.
4. Customer Relationship Management (CRM) Systems: Manages customer interactions and enhances support services.
5. AI-Powered Chatbots: Provides automated assistance to reduce the need for human intervention.
6. Real-time Dashboard and Analytics: Provides insights and analytics on user engagement and app performance.
7. Advanced Search Functionality: Includes features like product recommendations, image search, and voice command search.
8. In-App Camera: Allows users to capture their space and visualize furniture placement within the app.
9. QR Code and Barcode Scanning: Enables quick access to products through scanning.
10. Loyalty Programs: Implements programs to reward and retain loyal users.
11. POS Software Integration: Integrates with point-of-sale systems for seamless transactions.

Key Considerations For Developing An AR Shopping App Like IKEA 

Developing an augmented reality (AR) shopping app requires careful planning and consideration of various technical aspects. Some of them are mentioned below:

1. Platform Selection

One of the initial decisions is selecting the platform(s) to develop the AR app. Developers must assess the target audience and market trends to determine whether to build the app for iOS, Android, or both. Each platform has its unique capabilities and technical requirements that need to be considered during development.

2. AR Framework And SDK

Choosing the right AR framework and software development kit (SDK) is crucial for implementing AR functionality. Popular frameworks like ARKit (iOS) and ARCore (Android) provide essential tools and libraries for creating AR experiences. You should thoroughly evaluate the features, compatibility, and documentation of different frameworks to select the most suitable one for your app.

3. 3D Modeling And Rendering

Creating realistic 3D models of products is essential for a compelling AR shopping experience. You should focus on optimizing 3D models for mobile devices, considering factors like polygon count, texture resolution, and file format. Additionally, efficient rendering techniques, such as occlusion and lighting, play a vital role in enhancing the realism of AR objects.

4. Tracking And Recognition

Accurate tracking and object recognition are fundamental for seamless AR interactions. Implementing robust tracking algorithms, such as markerless tracking or SLAM (Simultaneous Localization and Mapping), ensures stable and precise placement of virtual objects in the real-world environment. Object recognition capabilities enable the app to identify and track specific products or surfaces for enhanced AR experiences.

5. User Interface And Interaction Design

Designing an intuitive and user-friendly interface is paramount for an AR home shopping app. You should consider including intuitive gestures, such as tapping, swiping, and pinching, to interact with virtual objects. Additionally, integrating features like tooltips, on-screen instructions, and user feedback mechanisms enhances the usability and overall user experience.

6. Network Infrastructure

For a seamless shopping experience, you must consider the app’s network infrastructure. Incorporating robust backend systems for inventory management, real-time product updates, secure payment gateways, and seamless integration with e-commerce platforms ensure smooth data flow and efficient transaction processing.

7. Performance Optimization

AR apps demand high performance to deliver immersive experiences. Optimizing resource usage, minimizing latency, and implementing efficient memory management techniques are vital for smooth AR rendering. You should consider device-specific optimizations and conduct thorough testing to ensure optimal performance across a range of devices.

By addressing these technical aspects, you can create a captivating and seamless AR shopping experience that delights users and drives engagement. 

How To Develop An AR Shopping App Like IKEA? 

Here are the technical steps to develop an AR shopping app like IKEA:

1. Set Up Basic Information

• Define the app name and bundle ID.
• Set up essential details for app identification and organization.

2. Define App Requirements And Features

• Determine the key features and functionalities of the AR shopping app.
• Understand user needs, target market, and business goals.
• Identify specific furniture categories, catalog organization, and search options.

3. Choose The Development Platform

• Decide whether to develop the app for iOS, Android, or both platforms.
• Consider platform-specific requirements, user base, and market share.

4. Select AR Framework and SDK

• Choose a suitable AR framework and SDK based on the selected platform(s).
• For iOS, consider using the ARKit framework and SceneKit or RealityKit for 3D rendering.
• For Android, opt for the ARCore framework and libraries like OpenGL or Unity for rendering.

5. Frontend Development

• Design and develop the user interface (UI) for the AR shopping app.
• Create visually appealing and intuitive screens for catalog browsing, product search, and AR interaction.
• Utilize HTML, CSS, and JavaScript to implement frontend components and UI interactions.
• Incorporate gesture-based interactions, tooltips, and visual cues for an immersive AR experience.
• Ensure responsive design for seamless app usage across different screen sizes and orientations.
• Conduct thorough testing to ensure UI/UX consistency, responsiveness, and ease of navigation.
• Use browser inspector tools for precise design adjustments.

6. Implement 3D Modeling And Rendering

• Create 3D models of furniture items using 3D modeling software like Blender or Maya.
• Optimize models for mobile devices by reducing polygon count and texture resolution.
• Consider file formats like glTF or USDZ for efficient rendering on AR platforms.

7. Enable Object Tracking And Recognition

• Implement robust tracking algorithms such as markerless tracking or SLAM.
• Utilize libraries like ARKit or ARCore for accurate object tracking and placement.
• Integrate computer vision techniques to recognize and track specific furniture items or surfaces.

8. Backend Development And Integration

• Build a backend system to manage product inventory, user accounts, and order processing.
• Integrate secure payment gateways and APIs for seamless e-commerce transactions.
• Consider using server-side technologies like Node.js or Django for backend development.

9. Add Content To The App

• Populate the app with a furniture catalog, product descriptions, and images.
• Incorporate relevant metadata, such as pricing, availability, and specifications.

10. Augmented Reality Implementation

• Enable AR mode to overlay virtual furniture in real-time using the selected AR framework and SDK.
• Implement features like scaling, rotation, and placement of virtual objects within the user’s environment.

11. Test And Debug

• Conduct comprehensive testing to ensure app functionality, usability, and performance.
• Perform device-specific testing on a range of iOS and Android devices.
• Use debugging tools and frameworks like Xcode or Android Studio to identify and fix any issues.

12. Deployment And Distribution

• Prepare the app for submission to the respective app stores (App Store or Google Play Store).
• Follow guidelines and requirements for app submission and distribution.
• Implement app analytics and crash reporting tools to gather user insights and monitor app performance.

13. Continuous Improvement And Updates

• Gather user feedback and reviews to identify areas for improvement.
• Regularly update the app with new furniture catalog updates, features, and bug fixes.
• Stay up to date with the latest AR technologies, frameworks, and libraries for future enhancements.

Tech Stack Required To Develop An AR Shopping App Like IKEA

Category	Technologies
AR Development	ARCore, ARKit, Vuforia, Wikitude, WikiTude SDK
3D Modeling	Onshape, SketchUp, Blender, Maya, Unity 3D
AR Devices	Mobile Devices, Smart Glasses, Virtual Retinal Displays
Mobile App Platform	Android, iOS
Cloud Environment	Amazon, Google Cloud
CDN	Cloudflare, MaxCDN, OVH CDN
Payment Gateways	PayPal, Stripe, Braintree
Push Notifications	Twilio, Push.io, Firebase SDK, APNs
SMS & Phone Verification	Nexmo, Twilio
Email Marketing	MailChimp
Database Technologies	Datastax, MongoDB, MySQL, PostgreSQL
Real-Time Analytics	Apache Storm, Google Cloud DataFlow
Sign-up Integration	Facebook API, Google API, Amazon SES
Search	Elastic Search
Sharing	Facebook API, Twitter API
Delivery Tracking	Google Maps API
Storage	Amazon S3, Google Cloud Storage
Backend	Ruby on Rails, Elixir/Phoenix, Node.js

Team Required For AR App Development

• Project Manager: Oversees the entire development process and timelines.
• AR Developer: Implements AR functionality using AR frameworks and SDKs.
• Frontend Developer: Designs and develops the user interface (UI).
• Backend Developer: Develops the backend systems and integrations.
• 3D Modeler: Creates 3D models of furniture items.
• UI/UX Designer: Designs intuitive and user-friendly interfaces.
• Database Specialist: Manages database technologies and data storage.
• Quality Assurance: Conducts testing and ensures app functionality.
• API Integration: Integrates payment gateways, push notifications, etc.
• Project Coordinator: Assists in coordinating tasks and communication.
• Marketing Specialist: Promotes the app and implements marketing strategies.

Factors Affecting The Cost To Develop IKEA-like AR Shopping App

The cost to develop an IKEA-like AR shopping app can vary based on several factors:

1. Complexity Of Features: The more advanced and complex features you want to incorporate into the app, such as object recognition, real-time AR rendering, and seamless integration with backend systems, the higher the development cost.
2. Design And User Interface: The level of sophistication and user experience design you aim to achieve can impact the cost. Creating visually appealing and intuitive interfaces requires additional design efforts and expertise.
3. Platform Compatibility: Developing the app for multiple platforms, such as iOS and Android, increases the development cost. Each platform may have different technical requirements and development processes.
4. Integration With Backend Systems: Integrating the app with backend systems, including inventory management, payment gateways, and customer relationship management, adds complexity and cost to the development process.
5. 3D Content Creation: If you plan to have an extensive catalog of 3D furniture models, the cost will increase as it involves 3D modeling, texturing, and optimization.
6. Team Expertise And Location: The skill level and location of the development team can affect the cost. Highly skilled developers and teams located in regions with higher labor costs may result in a higher development cost.
7. Maintenance And Updates: Ongoing maintenance, bug fixes, and updates after the app’s launch also contribute to the overall cost.

It’s important to consider these factors when estimating the cost to develop an IKEA-like AR shopping app, and working closely with a development team can help provide a more accurate cost assessment.

The Future Of Online Shopping Apps With Augmented Reality

The future of online shopping apps lies in the integration of augmented reality experiences. By combining the convenience of online shopping with immersive AR technology, customers will have the ability to visualize products in their own environments, customize and personalize items, and make more informed purchasing decisions. This exciting combination has the potential to revolutionize the way we shop and enhance the overall online shopping experience. Here’s how it might work:

1. Virtual Showrooms

Online shopping apps could feature virtual showrooms where users can explore a wide range of products in a simulated real-world environment. Customers can navigate through these showrooms, walk around virtually, and interact with the products using their smartphones or AR devices. This immersive experience would simulate the feeling of being in a physical store, allowing customers to browse and compare items effortlessly.

2. Try Before You Buy

Augmented reality can enable customers to “try on” products virtually. For example, a clothing retailer’s app could allow users to see how different outfits would look on them by overlaying the clothes onto their live video feed. This feature would help users make more informed decisions and reduce the need for returns.

3. Customization And Personalization

AR can facilitate personalized shopping experiences by allowing users to customize products in real-time. For instance, customers could visualize how different colors, patterns, or sizes would appear in their homes, enabling them to tailor products to their preferences before making a purchase.

4. Interactive Product Information

AR can provide interactive product information in real-time. By pointing their device at a product, customers could access detailed specifications, reviews, pricing, and other relevant information. This feature would enable users to make well-informed choices and compare products more effectively.

5. Social Shopping

AR-powered online shopping apps could integrate social elements, allowing users to share their virtual shopping experiences with friends and seek recommendations. Users could virtually shop together, share images of products in their homes, and receive feedback, creating a more interactive and engaging shopping experience.

6. Seamless Integration With E-commerce

Online shopping apps with AR capabilities would seamlessly integrate with e-commerce platforms. Customers could make purchases directly within the app, leveraging existing payment systems and delivery options. This integration would streamline the entire shopping process, making it more convenient and efficient.

IKEA Place Alternatives In The Market

IKEA Place has its alternatives in the augmented reality furniture app market. Several companies have embraced AR technology to enhance their digital marketing strategies and provide customers with immersive shopping experiences. Here are some notable alternatives to IKEA Place:

1. Augmented Furniture Lite

Introduced in 2014, Augmented Furniture Lite is an AR interior design app.

Users can virtually place furniture from various manufacturers within real rooms.

The app offers a comprehensive product catalog with options to customize colors, materials, textures, and dimensions.

Users can save their preferred items and share them with friends through social sharing features.

2. Amazon AR View

• Amazon launched the AR View feature in their app for iOS devices.
• Customers can visualize products, including furniture, in their actual living spaces.
• Based on Apple’s ARKit, users can access AR View by tapping the camera app icon and selecting the AR View option.
• Customers can choose furniture from different categories, rotate and position the items within their living space virtually.

3. Tango, Lowe’s Vision, and WayfairView

• Lowe’s and Wayfair, prominent furniture retailers, utilize their own apps based on Google’s Tango technology.
• Tango employs computer vision to enable mobile devices to understand their surroundings.
• These apps allow users to place 3D furniture models within real interiors for visualization.
• Tango technology incorporates features such as Area Learning, Depth Perception, and Motion Tracking, enhancing the AR experience.
• The platform is currently available on specific devices like Lenovo Phab 2 Pro and Asus ZenFone AR.

Conclusion

Developing an IKEA-like AR shopping app opens up exciting possibilities for redefining the retail business. By leveraging the power of augmented reality, businesses can provide customers with immersive and interactive shopping experiences that bridge the gap between the digital and physical worlds. Whether visualizing furniture in homes, trying on virtual clothes, or exploring product details dynamically, AR shopping apps offer convenience, personalization, and enhanced engagement.

Partnering with a reliable and experienced app development company is crucial to embark on this transformative journey. Idea Usher stands out as a leading app development company with expertise in AR technology. With a skilled team of developers, designers, and AR specialists, we possess the knowledge and proficiency to bring your IKEA-like AR shopping app vision to life. We understand the technical intricacies of AR frameworks, 3D modeling, object tracking, and backend integration, ensuring a seamless and captivating user experience. So, for the ultimate solution for your retail business, contact us today!

Contact Idea Usher at [email protected]

Or reach out at: (+1)732 962 4560, (+91)859 140 7140

FAQ

Q. How can an AR shopping app benefit my retail business?

A. An AR shopping app can bring numerous benefits to your retail business. It allows customers to visualize products in their own space, leading to increased engagement and confidence in purchase decisions. By offering an immersive and personalized shopping experience, you can enhance customer satisfaction and loyalty. Additionally, an AR app enables you to showcase a wider range of products without physical inventory limitations, expand your customer reach globally, and gather valuable data on customer preferences and behavior.

Q. What technologies are required to develop an AR shopping app like IKEA Place?

A. Developing an AR shopping app requires a combination of technologies. You will need AR frameworks such as ARKit (for iOS) or ARCore (for Android) for augmented reality capabilities. Additionally, 3D modeling software like Blender or Maya is essential for creating realistic virtual objects. Other technologies include computer vision algorithms for object tracking and recognition, backend systems for inventory management and payment processing, and frontend technologies like HTML, CSS, and JavaScript for the app interface.

Q. How can I ensure the accurate placement and scaling of virtual objects in the AR app?

A. To ensure precise placement and scaling of virtual objects, you can utilize marker-based AR or markerless AR techniques. Marker-based AR relies on markers or QR codes placed on surfaces to anchor virtual objects. Markerless AR uses location-based data and sensors to track the user’s environment. By implementing robust tracking algorithms and integrating computer vision techniques, you can achieve accurate positioning and scaling of virtual objects within the user’s physical space.

Q. How can I monetize an AR shopping app?

A. There are several monetization strategies for an AR shopping app. You can offer premium features or additional content through in-app purchases. Partnering with brands and retailers to feature their products in the app can generate revenue through sponsored placements. Implementing advertising solutions, such as targeted product recommendations or native ads, can also be profitable. Additionally, integrating e-commerce functionality and earning a commission on product sales is a viable revenue model. It’s essential to carefully consider your target audience and business objectives when choosing the most suitable monetization strategy.

Q. What are the key considerations for user experience (UX) in an AR shopping app?

A. User experience is crucial for the success of an AR shopping app. Focus on creating an intuitive and user-friendly interface that allows easy browsing, searching, and interaction with virtual objects. Ensure that the app provides seamless performance and fast loading times to enhance user satisfaction. Incorporate gestures, tooltips, and visual cues to guide users through the AR experience. Prioritize responsive design to ensure compatibility with different screen sizes and orientations. Regularly gather user feedback and conduct usability testing to continuously improve the app’s UX and address any usability issues or pain points.