YouTube has launched an AR programm to enable matching of makeup brands and influencers to enable virtual product testing.
Popular Google-owned video platform YouTube has recently introduced AR features within videos. The technology is set to provide myriad possibilities for YouTube-based beauty bloggers to play around with makeup virtually. Brands will also be able to use AR video on the platform as a credible tool for advertising their offerings.
YouTube parent brand Google made an announcement related to the AR-equipped feature launch that facilitates virtual try-ons. Viewers of AR videos have to use their device cameras as a mirror-like manner, in order to sample different makeup products digitally. If a viewer likes a particular product following a try-on, they can purchase the same by clicking the buy button. Google also made an announcement regarding another technology quite similar to AR, labelling it as three-dimensional display advertisements. These adverts can be featured on any mobile site.
Beauty brand Mac Cosmetics became one of the primary virtual try-on testers of this AR feature released by YouTube. Sportswear company New Balance also became one of the very first brands to create a three-dimensional display ad, which was included in a blog post by Google.
According to Clay Weishaar, Tool of North America creative director, the introduction of augmented reality ‘try-ons’ is an intelligent decision by YouTube. He emphasised that the video company has access to highly innovative technology forms, and the try-on features can eventually be rolled out for every type of clothing.
Weishaar represents the creative community that has received considerable success with regards to offering AR tech for prominent brands like Facebook, Amazon, SnapChat, Apple, and YouTube. All of these brands now sport AR programmes to enable developer and brands to create unique experiences. This has led to inventive uses enabling consumers to observe digital furniture versions or try on virtual sunglasses.
According to a report released recently by Nielsen SuperData, Mobile AR was able to generate $1.8 billion in 2018. That figure was expected to grow to twice that value during the current year.
Consumers today do not favour seeing static advertisements. Audiences are now able to undergo personalised experiences. Moreover, it was found that about half of augmented reality users tend to favour AR-based advertising. – Stephanie Llamas, VR/AR head at SuperData
YouTube attracts an impressive 2 billion viewers every month, based on official statistics revealed by the company. AR technology has become a popular tool for facilitating collaboration between brands and video makers, as it offers more than non-interactive and intrusive ads.
FameBit, the influencer programme brought by YouTube in 2016, is being used to enable AR interactions between video makers and brands. Noah Mallin, head of experience, content and partnerships, North America at Wavemaker, explained that YouTube is ahead of other influencer channels, as it users its FameBit connection to facilitate a greater understanding of influencers for cosmetics brands.
YouTube’s AR efforts can bring in more customers for leading brands.