- Improved Compliance
- Real Consumer Engagement
- Enable Digital Reorder
& Replenish
Augmented Reality and Smart Packaging
Augmented reality seems like a technology for Sci-Fi films and the distant future, however, AR is making huge strides in today's world. Although not a form of technology commonly used on a day-to-day basis by most of the world's population, we do see its use popping up in different industries. As we speak, AR is being put to the test. AR in the smart packaging industry has a long way to go, but we are already seeing its use speckled throughout the industry.
What is Augmented Reality?
Augmented reality is a complex technology that allows our existing environment to combine and superimpose with new information - creating something completely new and unique. Augmented reality is quite different than virtual reality since virtual reality uses a computer generated environment to create a new reality to the user.
Augmented Reality and Smart Packaging
In the smart packaging industry, augmented reality is used to create a deeper bond and further interaction with its customers. Say you take a trip to the store and find a new product that interests you. Since you have never used or seen the product before, you are unsure of what the product is like, how it looks, and how you would use it. Augmented reality in smart packaging would allow you to use your smartphone to "see" the product out of its package so you know exactly what you are going to buy. You can see the actual product without having to open a sealed box.
Additionally, augmented reality allows workers in packaging companies to wear specially designed AR glasses that can recognize certain factors and objects (i.e. a pallet). The glasses would allow workers to actually see where they should put certain products on a specific pallet. The AR glasses could also recognize specific objects by sight and make complex calculations.
What are the Benefits of Augmented Reality in Packaging?
AR in the smart packaging industry would allow workers to work faster and more efficiently. Using AR glasses can tell workers exactly what aisles items are located in, how they should be packaged, and what specific shelf they can be found. These glasses also add more confidence that the worker is picking the correct product that is going to ship out to a customer and/or store. There is no second guessing or wrong orders - eliminating time and cost issues for companies and distributors.
As far as customers go, AR is great for buying products one is not familiar with. It has the potential to eliminate returns and exchanges for products the customer wind up not liking because it wasn't what was expected. This saves the customer time and energy. Furthermore, if AR and smartphones while shopping can help customers find certain items in a store or recommend products they may like, it creates a more pleasant shopping experience and helps brands build stronger relationships directly with the consumer.