Today, we see how visual search is growing. With that, ASOS launched its own ASOS Visual Search. But, how does it change the retail industry for the better?
ASOS placed a big bet on visual search. But, why is that so?
Now, more brands and companies invest in this technology. Pinterest even reported a 100% increase in Lens users. Since then, more than 600 million visual searches monthly are made.
So, many big retailers do the same. For example, Amazon, eBay, and AliExpress.
Now, how does it work?
Read on to learn more.
ASOS Visual Search
In 2017, ASOS built an app with visual search technology. Since then, it has helped make product discovery easier.
So, more and more customers became interested in this. No need for them to type words to find the item they want. Now, they can simply take a photo of it.
After that, they launched the Style Match tool one year after. With that, it has more than 85,000 products.
Why did ASOS launch this tool? Well, ASOS wants shoppers to capture items in a fleeting situation. And this is something that only they can do.
Suppose you are on a busy train. Then, you saw someone wearing a nice jacket.
Surely, it would be awkward if you’d ask someone where he bought it. So, ASOS developed this app.
Simply take a shot of someone passing by. Or screenshot someone from Instagram. Then, you can use that photo to search through an online store.
About the ASOS Visual Search Team
ASOS visual search is powered by a third-party search provider. But, they did not disclose who this provider is.
Still, they are improving the app until now. At first, they chose to launch it in the UK only.
Then, they tested the app. After the test, it rolled out to different areas.
ASOS also has a wide tech team. In fact, they have 900 employees. And they plan more next year.
For now, ASOS targets having an AI search engine. So, they can use it for smart algorithms and big data.
It will then help them understand more about their customers. So, they will know the latest trends and what would click.
So, they can continue to improve the site. Plus, enhance the customer experience. Talk about two birds in one stone.
How It Works
Now, how does it works?
In the ASOS app, you can see a camera icon in the search bar. All you have to do is tap that icon.
Then, you can either take a picture or upload one from your gallery.
This is different from Google Lens, which focuses on searching for information. So, ASOS focuses on retail.
In fact, ASOS is the first for retail-focused visual search. Say you saw an outfit on Instagram? Simply use ASOS to look it up.
It can also give personalized suggestions. For example, you searched for a nice blouse.
Then, ASOS will show you skirts or pants that would match that. So, no more OOTD problems next time!