What is V-commerce?
V-commerce, short for virtual commerce, refers to the buying and selling of products or services using virtual and augmented reality technologies. It’s an emerging branch of eCommerce that creates more immersive and interactive online shopping experiences.This can include using augmented reality (AR) to try on clothes virtually, exploring a 3D version of a shop through a smartphone or VR headset, or using voice technology to search for and purchase products through a smart speaker or voice assistant. In some cases, v-commerce is used more broadly to refer to voice-powered commerce, or even as a general term for eCommerce,though its most common usage involves enhanced digital experiences through AR, VR or voice interaction.
Why does v-commerce matter in the future of online shopping?
V-commerce bridges the gap between physical and digital retail, offering more immersive and convenient ways to shop. It gives customers a better sense of how products will look or function in real life, increasing confidence and reducing returns.For example, shoppers might use an app to see how a sofa looks in their living room using augmented reality, or try on glasses virtually before ordering online. This type of experience adds a layer of personalisation that traditional online shopping can’t match. Voice-assisted shopping is also becoming more common, thanks to smart devices like Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant and Apple’s Siri. These tools use natural language processing to understand spoken commands, allowing users to reorder items, check delivery status or find product information using their voice.
As technology continues to evolve, v-commerce offers businesses new ways to engage customers, whether through virtual stores, AI-powered assistants, or interactive product demos. Investing in these experiences helps brands stay ahead of the curve and meet rising expectations for effortless, intuitive shopping in the digital age.
