More than a mirror, a virtual personal shopper. The dream of all shopping enthusiasts has already come true in the United States, in the dressing rooms of the chain stores Rebecca Minkoff (shoes, bags, women's clothing and accessories), Gerry Weber (women's clothing) and Levi's: it's called Smart Mirror and was launched by Mastercard as part of its ever-increasing orientation towards innovative digital payment solutions. Smart Mirror, which will soon also arrive in Europe and in Italy (although it is not yet known when or in which shops), however, goes beyond digital payment: it is a real shopping experience, which accompanies the consumer wherever usually found alone and indecisive.
In fact, according to data released by Mastercard during the Innovation Forum 2019 recently held in Milan, almost half of the customers are so undecided about what to do (sizes to try on and try again, colour, price, etc.) that they give up upon purchase. Smart Mirror instead is always there, offers all the information and details directly on the interactive touch screen and gives the possibility to choose any accessory, which is delivered directly by an employee near the dressing room, without having to call him back or waste time getting dressed. In addition, of course, to the possibility of buying the product directly while wearing it, after-thought-proof and perhaps avoiding long queues at the checkouts.
The revolution, in the plans of Mastercard, could mark the revenge of physical stores compared to e-commerce, which in recent years has engulfed a large part of purchases all over the world. Technology takes away, technology gives: “Virtual and augmented realities – commented Mike Cowen, head of digital payments of Mastercard, at the time of the launch – is changing the way we shop. And while commercial streets have been challenged by online shopping, new technologies like Smart Mirror allow retailers to fight back, offering the public the digital convenience they demand. We are working closely with some brands to offer new and safer ways to pay, to offer a more personal and faster experience for shoppers”.
Mirror, mirror of my desires, what is the most beautiful dress in the realm?
