NEW YORK—The ongoing pandemic and the resultant rise in online shopping has underlined the importance of virtual try-on technology, and the need for retailers across the country to offer it, according to the findings of a Piplsay survey. The survey and its corresponding report delve into people’s opinions and comfort levels regarding this fast-evolving retail technology.

Virtual try-on in retail, which first emerged in 2012, has undergone a transformation over the years, becoming much more simplified and user-friendly. While several top retailers and brands – including Macy’s, Kohl’s, Nike and Sephora – have already adopted this technology, others such as Walmart and Gap are set to roll it out soon, according to Piplsay’s survey findings.

The technology, which uses a combination of real-time image processing, computer vision, machine learning, and other AI technology, allows consumers to visualize different products on themselves and confirm the style, size and fit before making a purchase.

Asked about what factors would prompt them to try virtual try-on, 34 percent of respondents said it would be “better decision-making,” and 23 percent said “for convenience.”

Piplsay polled 30,530 Americans nationwide to get some insights. Here is a summary of its findings:

  • 34 percent of survey respondents have tried virtual try-on technology on a retail site

  • 85 percent of respondents who have tried virtual try-on are happy with their experience

  • 60 percent of respondents will be more encouraged to buy from brands that offer virtual try-on

  • 43 percent of men and 27 percent of women have used virtual try-on so far; Clothes are most popular with men, while women prefer eyewear the most

  • 39 percent of Millennials have used virtual try-on as compared with 31 percent of Gen Xers and 30 percent of Gen Zers

  • 39 percent of Millennials would be more likely to buy from brands that offer virtual try-on, as compared to 34 percent of Gen Zers and 27 percent of Gen Xers