That’s where technologies like Augmented Reality (AR) and AI come in. We’ve been pioneering AR at Snapchat for years. It’s technology that overlays digital content onto the real world and we believe it’s the future of how people will interact with the world, including shopping.
Today, over a third of Gen Zs say they find shopping more appealing when they can try things on virtually. Whether that’s lipstick shades via an AR lens, seeing what a pair of Nike trainers look like on your feet without stepping into store, or imagining how a piece of furniture will match a room’s aesthetic, this is how Gen Z makes decisions. It’s playful, practical, and personalised.
In the future, as AR glasses like Spectacles become mainstream, which they will be very soon when we launch to consumers next year, they’ll bring digital experiences seamlessly into the real world, letting shoppers see recommendations, try out items, and connect with friends, in real time.
This isn’t just good tech, it’s good business. And if retailers win Gen Z, they don’t just win online, they can help bring the high street back to life too.
Young people still want to shop in real life; they still want to hang out at the shops – just look at the popularity of experiences like The Jellycat Café at Selfridges. But they want it to feel worth the trip, through immersion, connection, and expression. The high street that meets those needs won’t just survive, it will thrive. The tech is here, and Gen Z is ready for it.
