Overview:
The real world and the digital world are converging every day and becoming increasingly interconnected, and where the two intersect is being described as ‘phygital’. Technologies such as AR and VR are breaking down barriers between the physical and digital world. Pure physical is outdated. Digital is simply not enough.
Phygital convergence enhances user engagement by building a deeper connection with physical and digital environments. It allows individuals to define their reality, blurring the boundaries between both. As this convergence continues to evolve, it promises to reshape shopping, entertainment, learning, work and communication.
Beyond bricks and clicks:
The phygital market is expected to be worth $216tn by 2030 with the user base expected to exceed 1.4bn globally.
The transformative impact of phygital Convergence is profound and extensive, affecting various aspects of our everyday lives. A successful digital strategy should be Instant, Connected, and Engaging (ICE). Consequently, this shift reshapes our interactions with the world, blurring the distinction between the physical and digital realms.
In the world of commerce, phygital convergence has transformed the shopping experience. Consumers can seamlessly transition from browsing products online to physically interacting with them in brick-and-mortar stores. AR allows customers to virtually try on clothing or visualize furniture arrangements in their own homes, providing a more immersive and informed shopping experience.
Entertainment has also undergone a significant revolution. VR transports users to immersive digital worlds, redefining how we play games and experience media. It offers unparalleled opportunities for exploration and storytelling, enhancing user engagement and interactivity. Apple introduced the Vision Pro mixed reality headset and continues to refine AR capabilities
Several organizations, such as Nike, Lowe’s, Walmart and Kaiser Permanente, are actively incorporating phygital convergence into their operations to enhance user engagement and experiences. Nike’s AR-powered app ensures a perfect shoe fir, while Lowe’s uses AR for visualizing product placements and DIY guidance. Walmart introduced Scan & Go technology for convenient digital shopping. Kaiser Permanente offers telemedicine services for remote healthcare consultations.
Disney has enhanced the visitor experience in its theme parks through bands equipped with RFID technology. These bands function as park tickets, hotel keys, and payment methods, seamlessly blending the physical and digital aspects of a visit to Disney parks.
Key challenges that need to be addressed for the global shift for mass adoption of phygital:
Overcoming hardware challenges remains a central focus in achieving widespread phygital adoption.
Enhancing AR tracking and display capabilities remains crucial for seamless integration of 3D objects into real-world spaces.
Achieving optimal processing speed is a key challenge in the phygital domain. Cloud processing, enabled by 5G connectivity, holds potential to enhance device performance.
The creation of cost-effective 3D content poses a significant challenge in achieving mass-market phygital adoption. Generative AI emerges as a potential solution by automating content creation processes.