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Decoding the Success of Viral AR Campaigns

Mathew Kurian
January 6, 2024
Explore the transformative power of augmented reality in digital marketing with real-world examples. Uncover AR's benefits, trends, and impact on B2B.

We all know how brands are constantly on the lookout for innovative ways to captivate their online audiences. And what better way to do that than with AR? Today, we're diving deep into the success factors behind viral AR campaigns that have taken the internet by storm. So, buckle up!

Explore more on how top brands captured the market and the role of interactive content in this process.

The Landscape of AR and VR in Digital Marketing

What is Augmented Reality (AR)?

First things first, let's demystify augmented reality. It's a technology that overlays digital information—like images, videos, or sounds—onto the real world. But wait, how is it different from artificial reality and virtual reality? While artificial reality creates a completely artificial environment, virtual reality immerses you in a different world altogether. AR, on the other hand, enhances your current reality. Think of it as your reality but with a sprinkle of digital magic! ✨

The AR Framework

Understanding the augmented reality framework is crucial for any marketer. It's the backbone that allows AR to integrate seamlessly with VR games and virtual reality headsets. Imagine trying on clothes in a virtual store while playing a game; that's the power of AR and VR combined!

The Rise of Extended Reality

Now, let's talk about mixed reality and extended reality. These aren't just buzzwords; they're shaping the media market as we know it. Extended reality combines AR, VR, and MR (Mixed Reality) to create more immersive brand experiences.

B2B Digital Marketing Trends

In the B2B digital marketing trends, AR and VR are not just fads; they're here to stay. They offer unique ways to engage with clients and customers, making business interactions more interactive and meaningful.

The Benefits and Advantages of AR in Marketing

Tangible Benefits

Let's cut to the chase: augmented reality isn't just a flashy gimmick; it's a game-changer in the marketing world. One of the most compelling augmented reality benefits is its ability to provide more personalized ad experiences. According to Forbes, AR puts the consumer in the middle of the story, making the experience feel personal and engaging.

  • Increased Interest: AR technology allows brands to create interactive and immersive experiences, which can significantly increase interest in the product and brand. Source
  • Educating and Entertaining: AR serves a dual purpose. It educates customers about your product while also entertaining them. This dual approach can encourage online channel adoption and even category expansion. Source

👉 Example: L'Oreal's AR app lets you try on makeup virtually, educating you about the product shades while entertaining you with the experience.

AR in Social Network Marketing

Ah, social network marketing, the bread and butter of modern-day digital strategies. Now, add a sprinkle of AR, and you've got yourself a recipe for success. AR can significantly amplify your SMM marketing and social marketing efforts.

  • Instagram Marketing: Brands are increasingly using AR filters on Instagram to engage with their audience. It's not just fun; it's strategic.

👉 Example: Starbucks' Instagram AR filter that lets you wear a virtual crown of their famous Frappuccino. Talk about a caffeine buzz!

AR in Advertising

We're in 2023, and the advertising trends are ever-evolving. AR is not just an add-on; it's becoming a core component of advertising strategies.

  • AR Ads: These are not your run-of-the-mill ads. They are interactive, engaging, and oh-so-clickable.
  • Examples for Virtual Reality: While AR ads bring the product to the consumer, VR ads transport the consumer to the product. Both are revolutionizing the way we think about interactive advertisement.

👉 Example: Pepsi's AR Bus Shelter ad in London. It didn't just advertise Pepsi; it created an unforgettable experience.

Real-world Examples of Successful AR Campaigns

In the ever-evolving landscape of digital marketing, nothing speaks louder than success stories. Let's delve into some real-world examples that have not only made headlines but also turned heads. These case studies are a testament to the power of augmented reality campaigns in connecting with audiences on a deeper, more interactive level.

AR in Retail

Virtual Makeup Rooms

One of the most talked-about applications of AR in retail is virtual makeup rooms. Brands like L'Oreal and Sephora have leveraged AR to allow customers to try on makeup virtually. This not only enhances the augmented reality experience but also solves a real problem for online shoppers.

👉 Impact: Increased online sales and reduced product returns. Source

AR in Entertainment

Verizon's '5G Built Right for Snapchat' Campaign

Verizon took AR advertising to the next level with its Snapchat campaign. Users could engage with 5G experiences right from their AR glasses, making it one of the most interactive campaigns to date.

👉 Impact: Boosted brand engagement and showcased the capabilities of 5G in a fun, interactive way. Source

AR in Experiential Marketing

HubSpot's Innovative AR Experiences

HubSpot has been at the forefront of using AR for experiential marketing. Their campaigns often feature cool augmented reality ideas that go beyond mere advertising and offer genuinely engaging experiences.

👉 Impact: Increased brand loyalty and customer engagement. Source

AR in Automotive

Virtual Car Test Drives

Brands like BMW and Tesla are offering virtual test drives, allowing potential buyers to experience the car without actually being in it. This is a fantastic example of how AR and VR in digital marketing can offer practical solutions to real-world problems.

👉 Impact: Higher conversion rates and a more informed customer base. Source

AR in Healthcare

Virtual Hospital Tours

The healthcare sector is also not far behind in adopting AR. Virtual hospital tours are becoming increasingly popular, allowing patients to explore facilities from the comfort of their homes.

👉 Impact: Increased patient trust and reduced anxiety about hospital visits. Source

Challenges and Solutions

The Challenge of Earned Media

Ah, earned media, the elusive unicorn of the marketing world. It's the kind of publicity you don't pay for but dearly wish for. In the realm of AR marketing, earned media can be a goldmine. Imagine a teenager sharing their augmented reality experience with a brand's AR filter on TikTok, and it goes viral. That's earned media, and it's priceless. But how do you get there?

👉 Example: Coca-Cola's AR-enabled cans allowed users to see stories come to life on their smartphones. The campaign was so engaging that it generated massive amounts of earned media through social shares.

Overcoming Common Pitfalls

Let's face it; AR campaigns can sometimes be a double-edged sword. They can either make you the talk of the town or leave your audience scratching their heads. So, how do you avoid common pitfalls in AR marketing campaigns?

  • Overcomplication: Keep it simple. Your audience shouldn't need a manual to engage with your AR experience.
  • Irrelevance: Make sure your AR adds value to the user and is not just a shiny new toy.

👉 Example: IKEA's AR app, which lets you place furniture in your space virtually, is a masterclass in avoiding these pitfalls. It's simple, intuitive, and solves a real problem.

Interactive Advertisement

The future of interactive advertisement is bright, especially with AR in the mix. Imagine scanning a QR code on a bus stop ad and immediately being able to virtually try on the advertised sunglasses. That's not just advertising; that's an experience.

👉 Example of interactive advertising: Pepsi’s AR Bus Shelter in London made waiting for the bus an alien adventure. It was so engaging that people actually wanted to miss their bus!

How to Implement AR in Your Marketing Strategy

Tools and Platforms

So you're sold on AR. Great! But where do you start? There are various tools and platforms to kickstart your AR journey:

  • Spark Augmented Reality: Ideal for creating AR experiences on Facebook and Instagram.
  • AR Eye Glasses: For more immersive experiences.
  • Google Display Advertising: For running AR ads that can be displayed across various websites.

Measuring Success

You can't manage what you can't measure. Here are some KPIs to keep an eye on:

  • User Engagement: Time spent interacting with the AR experience.
  • Conversion Rate: The percentage of users who take a desired action.
  • Social Shares: Especially important for social media advertising.

Alright, let's wrap this up. The benefits of using AR in online advertising are manifold. It's not just a digital marketing trend of 2023; it's a long-term investment. AR allows for a deeper emotional connection, making your brand not just seen but felt. As we look to the future, AR and VR are not just going to be part of the marketing toolkit; they're going to redefine it.

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Mathew Kurian
May 9, 2023
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