Benefits Of Augmented Reality In Ecommerce

Augmented Reality provides benefits to customers, who feel more confident in their purchases, and merchants, who see increased sales as a result of this.

By Oli Kashti

Published January 12, 2026

a woman wearing a virtual headset sitting at a desk

One of the ways we see eCommerce evolving in 2026 is through the use of Augmented Reality (AR). This technology allows shoppers to virtually ‘try’ products before they buy them. Use cases can be for certain items of furniture within the imagined location for them, fashion items on a template body, or even makeup colors on a face.

AR bridges the gap between shopping online and shopping in-store, with people being able to feel more confident in their purchases. These 3D demos that can be offered demonstrate how AI technology can enhance shopping experiences and interactive customer journeys to remember.

Common Uses For AR

Some of the ways one AR might be applied are as follows:

Virtual Try-On: these can work for fashion items such as makeup, jewelry, glasses, clothing
Product Placement: virtual furniture or decor in the home
3D Exploration: for complex items with an attention to detail

Let’s take a close look at some benefits to AR now.

Higher Confidence & Conversions

Customers are able to ‘try before they buy’ which is something previously impossible in online shopping. Being able to visualise something in the desired location means that shoppers aren’t just ‘guessing’ if the product will fit, they are making a more informed decision.

This means that the customers feel valued and they enjoy a uniquely personalized eCommerce experience. On the merchants end, this is great news as it will result in more purchases- since shoppers are more informed. Giving consumers this freedom is a win/win for both parties.

Since the customers will feel more confident in their purchases, it also means that they are more likely to pay more for products. Higher ticket items require a deeper level of trust, but being able to try these on with AR is able to offer this.

Fewer Returns

Following on from this, if shoppers have more information and confidence when making their purchases, the chance of returns is reduced. Just as important product descriptions such as dimensions and sizes are helpful in reducing returns, AR is even more so.

The 3D models are able to offer:

Detailed specifications
Exact colors
Precise sizes
360 dimensions

Increased Customer Satisfaction

Engagement and satisfaction increases when AR is employed on your eCommerce website. This is because interactive experiences such as AR are enjoyable and useful for customers. Being able to visualise products is an entertaining experience.

This will help to create memorable brand interactions and leave a positive brand image. When eCommerce is so popular, every market is saturated, and being able to offer experiences that help your brand stand out from the crowd can make all the difference.

Conclusion

There are many uses for AR that can help boost the customer experience and also help boost sales for the merchants. Being able to ‘try before you buy’ is a huge benefit for those shopping online, so it’s no surprise that this new technology will be starting to appear more on your screens in 2026.