The Impact of Computer Vision on AR in Retail and Education

Computer vision facilitates innovation in augmented reality (AR). By allowing devices to see and interpret visual information, this technology will unlock new use cases. That is how customer experience specialists and learning technology developers view computer vision. Two crucial industries, retail and education, are already implementing AR powered by new computer vision techniques to boost stakeholder engagement and deliver better outcomes.

What is the Impact of Computer Vision on AR in Retail?

Reinventing experiences for the retail establishments becomes less challenging because of computer vision and augmented reality integration. For instance, customers can find, try on, and purchase products without the actual transport of goods.

Snap Inc. and Deloitte Digital, in their Snap Consumer AR Global Report, noted that 71 percent of customers will more frequently shop when a mobile-friendly AR view mode is an option. Those statistics are comparative, highlighting how younger buyers are more interested in AR-driven demos or virtual reality product trials. Besides, retail brands are tapping into computer vision services to blend visual AI and AR to create interactive experiences.

For instance, IKEA acquired Geomagical Labs to replace Apple’s ARKit in the now-integrated IKEA Place app that came out in 2017. So, in 2025, similar features involving furniture placement trials in real-world settings will gain traction in the core IKEA app under Kreativ branding.

What is the Impact of Computer Vision on AR in Education?

Redesigning learning processes for higher attention retention and better outcomes necessitates the use of computer vision and AR. The former allows the latter to identify real-world objects. Consequently, mapping digital information onto physical settings is more straightforward than ever. 

Given the popularity of interactive, immersive learning tools, educators and independent edtech platforms must swiftly adopt AR. Some global institutions can require expert oversight on machine learning operations that help leverage computer vision for AR-focused edtech enhancements. In addition to MLOps services, academic organizations also benefit from more widely available Google Lens and Microsoft HoloLens platforms. They use vision and AR to provide interactive lessons in schools and laboratories.

Examples of Different Companies Utilizing Computer Vision and AR to Modernize Retail and Education Experiences

1. Fashion brands like Zara and Nike are using computer vision-powered AR mirrors in physical stores. Such a measure enables customers to monitor body movement. Those mirrors also superimpose virtual clothes to demonstrate fit and texture. That enables informed decision making, reduces product returns due to fitting issues, and prevents post-purchase complaints.

2. Similarly, students can explore human anatomy in 3D using HoloHuman by GigXR. It primarily leverages computer vision to map the human body in augmented space.

3. Furthermore, Merge EDU employs object recognition. It lets students handle virtual objects through compatible AR devices. So, these tools promote experiential learning. This approach directly enhances memory retention.

Conclusion

The combination of computer vision and AR will thrive as hardware and software advancements make new use cases less complex. Credence Research projects the global AR market to reach US$189.8 billion by 2028. It also highlights that computer vision will be a hard-to-ignore enabler.

As the computer vision technology undergoes consistent upgrades, businesses in the education and retail industries will develop new methods to customize experiences and enhance efficiency. Their offerings will blur the line between the computer and physical worlds. Therefore, organizations will seamlessly provide smarter, more interactive experiences that shape the future of interaction. 

Learn more about SG Analytics' Tech Services and Solutions!