Virtual-reality shopping expands with payment capability from Mastercard and Swarovski
We’ve seen several gaming and augmented and virtual reality applications as well as some furniture based ones come to market but now we are seeing a new partnership jump into the AR/VR waters. This pairing of MasterCard and Swarovski brings our Disruptive Technologies and Cashless Consumption investment themes together as shoppers can purchase within the immersive shopping experience. How long until homebuilders enable AR walkthroughs of model homes? Will we be able to use in-app purchases to change paint colors or visualize brand specific furniture and electronics?
The latest in the succession of brands deploying advanced tech integration and elevated consumer experiences, Mastercard and Swarovski have announced their partnership for a virtual reality powered app.The shopping app will invite consumers to peruse and purchase the Atelier Swarovski interior décor line that includes functional and crystal home accessories designed by leading architects and interior designers. The app aims to empower users to participate in fully immersive shopping experiences.“As our e-commerce business continues to grow, this partnership allows consumers a fully immersive shopping opportunity to interact with the product and then purchase seamlessly within the experience,” said Nadja Swarovski, member of the executive board of Swarovski Crystal Business. “The cutting-edge VR technology allows consumers to fully realize scale and engage more deeply with design details before making a purchase – anywhere.”Given the delicate and fragile nature of Swarovski pieces, unnecessary wear and tear is avoided by running the app — users are able to view the items without needing ship to alternative store locations. Purchases are frictionless, the app will provide checkouts via Masterpass, Mastercard’s digital payment service.
Source: Mastercard and Swarovski team up on new virtual-reality shopping app – LA Times
