Recently, everyone has been talking about artificial intelligence (AI). Undoubtedly, this technology has already become an integral part of our lives, but in 2025, it will take a back seat. I firmly believe that this is the year of VR (virtual reality) and AR (augmented reality). Here's why I’m betting on it.
The use of augmented reality (AR) technology in e-commerce shows a significant impact on increasing conversion rates and sales volumes. According to data provided by Snap and Deloitte Digital, implementing AR in advertising can boost conversions by 94%, and shoppers are 41% more likely to choose products from brands that utilize AR technology.
Rapid Growth in the AR and VR Market
The statistics back up this claim. In 2024, the global AR and VR market was valued at $59.81 billion. Forecasts for the coming decade are staggering: by 2034, it’s expected to reach $589 billion with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 25.70%.
Moreover, in 2024, the number of AR device users hit 1.4 billion. By the end of 2025, that figure is projected to rise to 1.73 billion. Clearly, AR and VR are quickly becoming a part of everyday life.
How AR Boosts Sales
Studies show that incorporating AR into advertising and e-commerce significantly improves conversion rates. For instance, data from Snap and Deloitte Digital reveals that AR marketing campaigns can boost conversions by up to 94%. Additionally, shoppers are 41% more likely to choose products from brands that use AR technologies.
AR enables:
Virtual try-ons for clothing and accessories.
Visualization of furniture placement in your home before purchase.
Immersive shopping experiences that foster emotional connections with brands.
Why VR and AR Have Become More Accessible
In the past, these technologies were seen as expensive and complicated to implement. In 2025, the landscape has changed dramatically:
Affordable Devices. VR headsets like the Meta Quest 3 have become more budget-friendly, and smartphones now support AR without additional equipment.
Ease of Integration. Businesses have realized that AR and VR can be implemented quickly and effectively, even with limited budgets.
Industry Leaders Already Using VR and AR
Major companies are already leveraging these technologies:
Retail. Clothing brands are adopting AR fitting rooms to reduce returns and enhance customer satisfaction.
Real Estate. Developers are offering VR tours of properties still under construction, enabling clients to “visit” without leaving home.
Automotive. Virtual showrooms allow customers to test-drive cars in VR, simplifying the decision-making process.
The Demand for Immersion and Emotion
As we spend more time online, people increasingly crave rich, immersive experiences. AR and VR provide ideal solutions:
Interactive Events. Virtual product launches, concerts, and tours are now accessible to anyone.
Gamified Shopping. Shopping becomes an exciting quest rather than a chore.
Conclusion
2025 will be the year when VR and AR transform how we perceive shopping, advertising, and brand interactions. Businesses that quickly adapt to these changes will gain a competitive edge and foster customer loyalty.
AI will remain a vital tool, but it’s VR and AR that will create the emotional connections and experiences that resonate most. If you haven’t yet considered integrating these technologies into your business, now is the time to act. The future is here—and it’s augmented.
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