10,000. That’s, on average, how many ads are being seen by today’s consumers each and every day.
Take a moment and think: How many of those ads do you actually remember? As the digital landscape evolves, we are becoming less and less affected by ads—not because they’re irrelevant, kitschy, or unstimulating, but because they’ve become so intrusive.
The concept of intrusive advertising isn’t new—we’ve all been subject to the occasional unwanted popup or auto-play video no one asked for. Today, pushing evasive, unwelcomed, and often irrelevant content to consumers happens just as often as we blink. It’s partly why we’re so quick to click the “I’m not sure” option when prompted with Meta’s Ad Recall surveys.
To improve affinity and create content consumers want to remember, it’ll require flipping advertising on its head and putting a greater focus on integrating into the lives of consumers rather than interrupting it. Goodbye, intrusive. Hello, ~~immersive~~ advertising.
Immersive Technology: The ‘It Girl’ of Advertising
Immersive technology is no longer a figment of our imagination or something we could only dream of after catching an episode of The Jetsons or Westworld—it’s the future of advertising.
Immersive ads go beyond traditional images and videos to create interactive, collaborative experiences that engage, rather than enrage, consumers. They take consumers on unique journeys through virtual or augmented (or often, mixed reality) worlds without interrupting their day-to-day. Free from obstruction, augmented reality (AR) or virtual reality (VR) technology allows consumers to interact with brands—and one another—in richer ways than ever before.
Black Mirror Season 1, Episode 3
We’re not forgetting our collective Pokémon Go obsession any time soon—and neither will The Entire History of You.
Augmented reality is the real deal. AR is all about immersing consumers by integrating digital and three-dimensional components into current, real-world environments on a marker-based or markerless basis.
While markerless AR tends to be more complex, its unique, forward-thinking capabilities make it more desirable for brands and consumers alike:
64%
of consumers
prefer retailers
who tap into AR.
44%
of consumers are more
likely to explore products
after AR interactions.
65%
of consumers are more
likely to order after
AR interactions.
Meet Me in the Metaverse
Sometimes, we could use a break from the real world. Enter virtual reality.
VR uses three-dimensional, simulated environments to block current surroundings and transport consumers into new non-immersive, semi-immersive, fully immersive, or collaborative spaces.
VR in all forms offers greater user-personalization and more tailored consumer experiences.
71%
of consumers expect
personalized interactions
with brands.
$22B
worth by 2025 as VR
market is expected
to double in size.
Mixed Reality: The Best of Both Worlds
Alone, there’s so much we can achieve. But together, mixed reality (a combination of AR and VR) takes us to new levels.
Projected to grow 44% by 2029, mixed reality (MR) combines immersive technology to blend environments and blur barriers. Here, AR’s ‘real-world experience’ and VR’s ‘3D digital elements’ combine, allowing users to interact with and manipulate projections.
Everyone Wants a Break From Reality
The fast growth and lasting influence of AR and VR prove it. It’s not just the future of advertising—it’s the future of many unique industries looking to improve experiences from shopping to training. Here are some current use cases for AR and VR that only scratch the surface of these powerful tools.
Who’s All in on AR
These industries took a chance, immersed themselves in AR, and experienced the benefits, including (but not limited to) better customer experiences, a boost in sales, and sky-high engagement.
Retailers
These apps bring product try-on experiences right to your phone.
Innovations like the IKEA Place and Warby Parker apps help you envision that new sofa in your den or find frames that fit your face.
Gamers and Entertainers
See your favorite video game characters in the real world.
Apps like Pokémon Go and even Coachella’s AR Music Experiences caused a frenzy that will one day make it into history books.
Architects and Builders
Go beyond the norm. Anyone can innovate!
Augmented reality in untapped industries like architecture and building changes the way we measure, design, and collaborate.
Who’s Venturing into VR
VR is equipping experts in these industries with the skills needed to better retain information, improve outcomes, and drive interest.
Educators and Trainers
In 2022, PWC found those who used VR in training absorbed information four times quicker.
Additionally, trainees were 275% more confident when it came to applying their skills.
Healthcare Heroes
Do more than entertain. Care and treat!
From treating mental illnesses to aiding those with physical disabilities, the healthcare industry hopes to do just that.
Real Estate Pros
Tour homes without stepping inside them!
Home professionals and engineers are doing it all, gaining insights and making remodel dreams come true.
Learn, Earn, and Grow: All Things AR, VR, and MR at AI
The reality is…
Augmented, virtual, and mixed realities are the future of advertising. An agency partner with a strong background in creating unique, personalized AR and VR experiences for brands, like AGAIN, is all you need to achieve your goals and give your brand the edge it needs to stand out among competitors.
Ready to get real? Drop us a line at info@againinteractive.com!
samantha sekora
Samantha Sekora—a member of the creative team here at AGAIN— is a cutting-edge writer and lover of all things social. When she's not typing away, you might find Samantha off doing some of her favorite things, like roller skating and antiquing. All while sporting her signature sunflower pin.