You may have encountered the term “visual shopping search.” What is it? And how does it help online shopping?
Let’s find out!
Visual Shopping Search
Visual shopping search is not just a new trend. It sure has lasting effects on the retail industry.
But, what is it?
Visual search is using images instead of text. Also, it is very helpful. Especially when you want to search for something you can’t describe.
Let’s have an example. Say you saw your friend carrying a handbag. And you want one just like it.
No need to put words into search engines. Just take a picture of it. Then, the engine will show you similar items.
What if you do not have a picture of it? Or you did not see the item in person? So, you can’t take a photo?
Visual search also works with screenshot photos.
For example, you saw a post from your friend on Instagram. Then, you want to know which beach they went to.
Simply take a screenshot. Then, upload it to the visual search engine. Finally, you’ll find that landmark of the beach.
Can you imagine how convenient it is? You’re saving your words. Also, you’re saving time!
Visual Shopping Search For Online Retail
So, where does retail fit into a visual shopping search? To understand it better, let’s have an example again.
You saw someone on the train wearing a dress. Suddenly, you wanted to buy it.
But when you’re on the search engine, you can’t describe the dress perfectly. Also, when you attempted to, it shows you different results.
Or maybe you are looking for a watch. Then, you typed “silver watch with link band.”
Again, it could show you millions of potential results. Worse, it will show you stores from other countries!
Therefore, there is a need for a simplified search in shopping. Especially if we want accurate results.
Thankfully, a visual shopping search is to the rescue.
Organic reach
Saw someone wearing the watch you want? Or saw a post of it?
Take a photo. Upload a screenshot. Then, a visual shopping search will look for the item.
It also shows you the nearest stores. Or the cheapest online deals.
These things give brands the potential to reach more customers. Thus, visual search also works as marketing.
But, less the money to spend! Why? It was your friends who showed you, in effect, the store.
Gain traffic from social media
Moreover, brands can get more visitors from social media. How?
We can simply put the photo from the brand’s Instagram. Then, you can find what you’re looking for.
In fact, a study shows that 75% of shoppers always search for the visual. They do this before buying the item.
Hence, it shows how important images are. Companies and brands should prioritize this switch.
Other retail industries
We only mentioned fashion in retail so far. But, other industries can also benefit from visual shopping search.
In addition, it is useful for furniture and home brands. How?
Visual search improves showrooming. So, what they see in-store is also seen online. Thus, it makes the shopping journey better.
