Argos Catalogue Gets Augmented with Aurasma

Screen Shot 2014-07-16 at 11.54.45Argos has incorporated AR (Augmented Reality) content into its Autumn/Winter catalogue.

Over 300 items in the print catalogue are marked with the Argos Scan icon, and can be scanned using a new function, powered by the Aurasma SDK, in the existing Argos app – which has already been downloaded over 8m times.

Theres a variety of content which can be accessed in this way, including 3D models of toys, tie-in games, and virtual try before you buy activities which let users preview what a watch will look like on their wrist, or what a TV will look like in their living room, as well as the usual selection of product information, video content and competitions.

 

This isnt the first time Argos has tested the waters with AR. It worked with Blippar on its catalogue and Christmas gift guide last year, which it says resulted in over 1.5m scans from customers, but its worth noting that the retailer has decided to work with a different vendor for this project.

“Customers can get a much richer shopping experience with us online including twice the range of products, the latest offers and ability to check stock levels in stores, so building a bridge between our physical and digital channels remains a key priority for us,” said Bertrand Bodson, chief digital officer at Argos parent company Home Retail Group.

“We were really encouraged by the high levels of engagement from customers in our initial AR trials.  By launching Argos Scan, we can bring the catalogue to life for millions more who are already using our smartphone and tablet apps.  Because it’s built into the app already, it’s really accessible and easy to use.”