Amazon has today unveiled a new iPhone application called Flow, which uses augmented reality to enable you to quickly check items in-store against prices on Amazon’s website.
Simply pick up the product you see in a retail store and point your iPhone at its UPC code. All the information you could possibly need is then magically displayed on your iPhone, including pricing, customer reviews, and related products. This innovative approach not only saves time but also ensures that you are making informed purchasing decisions.
How Amazon Flow Works
The new Amazon Flow application has been designed in conjunction with Amazon’s A9 subsidiary company, which explains:
“This is our first step towards integrating product search technology with augmented reality,” – “The integration of a live camera display, graphical overlays, and visual recognition technology creates a seamless experience for a customer looking to discover information about objects in their physical surroundings.”
Flow uses continuous scan technology developed by A9.com’s visual search team to identify products and provide related information found on Amazon.com. This technology allows the app to recognize a wide range of products almost instantaneously. Once a product is identified, the app overlays relevant information directly onto the live camera view. This includes not only the price but also customer reviews, ratings, and even suggestions for related products that might interest you.
Benefits of Using Amazon Flow
One of the primary benefits of using the Flow application is the ability to ensure you are getting the best deal available. By comparing in-store prices with those on Amazon, you can make sure you are not overpaying for a product. Additionally, the app provides access to customer reviews, which can be incredibly valuable when deciding whether a product is worth purchasing. These reviews often include insights into the product’s quality, durability, and overall performance, helping you make a more informed decision.
Another significant advantage is the convenience factor. Instead of manually searching for a product online, Flow allows you to simply scan the UPC code and instantly access all the information you need. This can be particularly useful during busy shopping trips when time is of the essence.
Moreover, the app’s ability to suggest related products can enhance your shopping experience by introducing you to items you might not have considered otherwise. For example, if you are scanning a book, Flow might suggest other books by the same author or within the same genre, broadening your options and potentially leading to more satisfying purchases.
The new Flow application is now available to download for free from the Apple App Store. This makes it accessible to a wide range of users, allowing anyone with an iPhone to take advantage of its powerful features.
Future Implications and Developments
The launch of the Flow app marks a significant step forward in the integration of augmented reality with everyday shopping experiences. As technology continues to evolve, we can expect even more advanced features to be added to applications like Flow. For instance, future updates might include the ability to recognize products without the need for a UPC code, using only the product’s shape and design. This would make the app even more user-friendly and versatile.
Additionally, as augmented reality becomes more mainstream, we might see similar applications being developed for other platforms and devices, such as Android smartphones and wearable technology like smart glasses. This would further enhance the convenience and accessibility of augmented reality shopping tools.
In conclusion, Amazon’s Flow app represents a groundbreaking development in the world of retail and e-commerce. By combining augmented reality with powerful product search technology, it offers a seamless and efficient way to shop smarter. Whether you are a frequent shopper or someone who values making informed purchasing decisions, Flow is a must-have tool that can significantly enhance your shopping experience.
Source:
Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals
Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
