Will Consumers Eventually Allow AI To Choose What They Buy?

In the world of fashion, augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) have been at the forefront of new technology that’s being experimented with in hopes of delivering a more personal and seamless buying experience for customers.

Though slow to gain traction in the U.S. consumer market outside of gaming, these technologies are making significant inroads in retail. The AR/VR market in the U.S. is projected to reach $15.4 billion by 2028, up from $10.3 billion in 2024, growing at over 10% annually.

Studies have shown that AR and VR have been successful in boosting conversion rates, and they also help customers make more informed decisions. For example, L’Oréal’s ModiFace AR filters let users experiment with different makeup looks before making a purchase, while Wayfair’s AR app Decorify helps customers visualize furniture in their homes, potentially reducing returns.

Other retailers have also gone above and beyond by offering exclusive virtual products and fashion items available only through digital means, along with entire VR worlds and gamification implementation.

The latest retailer to test the trend is GlassesUSA.com and its “Pairfect Match AI,” which is an artificial intelligence technology designed to enhance online eyewear shopping. This new tool provides personalized recommendations by matching customers with glasses that fit the exact features of their facial structure from a selection of over 10,000 frames. Style preferences are also taken into consideration.

“At GlassesUSA.com, innovation is at the heart of everything we do. The launch of “Pairfect Match AI™” represents a pivotal moment in our quest to redefine how consumers shop for eyewear. By combining advanced AI capabilities with our deep understanding of customer needs, we are making it easier than ever for individuals to find glasses that both meet their prescription requirements and reflect their unique personality and style, all with the convenience of affordable shopping from the comfort of their home.”

GlassesUSA.com CEO and Co-Founder Daniel Rothman via PR Newswire

“Pairfect Match AI” aims to simplify the process of finding the perfect pair of glasses, reducing the feeling of rolling the dice often associated with online purchases for items that need to be worn. This innovation builds on GlassesUSA.com’s previous tech advancements, including the “Live Try-On” augmented reality mirror and the “Prescription Scanner” app.

Other eyewear retailers, such as Warby Parker, offer the ability to use VR and AR for trying on glasses as well, usually by either taking a selfie or using a video of a customer’s face in real time through their smart device’s camera.

But fashion and aesthetics are only the beginning for the eyewear retail industry, according to Hubble Money, which anticipates a future where AI “can predict future eyewear trends or even advise on the best frames for specific occasions.” Additionally, the outlet notes that AI and ML may be able to help identify early indicators of eye disorders. By analyzing images and assessing eye health, they could alert you if a visit to an ophthalmologist is needed.