Boost Conversions with Augmented and Virtual Reality in Your Canadian E-Commerce Store
Canadian e-commerce is evolving, and customers now expect more than just good product photos. Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) are quickly becoming game-changers for Shopify merchants looking to stand out and increase conversion rates — especially in a market that values convenience, tech, and trust.
AR lets shoppers visualize products in their space, while VR can offer full showroom tours or immersive brand experiences — right from their smartphones or VR headsets. If you’re thinking long-term, now is the time to create your store for free and integrate immersive tech into your Shopify business.
What AR and VR Can Do for Your Shopify Store
Augmented Reality (AR):
- Lets customers see how a product would look in their home or on their body (furniture, glasses, décor).
- Helps reduce return rates by aligning expectations with reality.
- Can be used directly in the browser with mobile devices — no app required.
Virtual Reality (VR):
- Creates immersive experiences such as virtual stores, showrooms, or branded walkthroughs.
- Great for higher-ticket items (real estate, art, fashion, furniture).
- Builds strong emotional connection with customers.
Consumers in Canada are increasingly mobile-first, and immersive shopping tools give them confidence to purchase online without hesitation. Start the journey today — create your store for free and explore Shopify’s AR/VR capabilities
Top Shopify Apps That Enable AR/VR Experiences
1. Shopify AR
Built directly into Shopify, this tool allows 3D models to be displayed on product pages. Supports iOS AR Quick Look and Android Scene Viewer.
2. LevAR
An AR platform that allows 3D product visualization in real time. No coding required.
3. Threekit
For advanced 3D configuration and VR showrooms. Perfect for stores with complex or customizable products.
4. Poplar Studio
Helps small businesses integrate lightweight AR experiences (great for beauty, fashion, and home goods).
All of these integrate smoothly once your store is live. Create your store for free and start testing which immersive tools work for your audience.
How to Integrate AR Into Product Pages
Step-by-step to implement AR with no tech headaches:
- Create a 3D Model
Hire a 3D artist or use services like Threekit or CGTrader to build your product in 3D. - Add AR Viewer to Product Page
Shopify supports USDZ (Apple) and GLB (Android) files. Use Shopify AR or apps like LevAR. - Tag Your Product with “View in Your Space” Button
Add the feature next to the product photo. Shoppers can scan with their phones and instantly see the item in their room.
This level of interactivity builds trust — especially for customers in remote areas or outside major cities like Toronto or Vancouver. Want to get started? Create your store for free and access Shopify’s AR documentation.
How VR Can Create Memorable Customer Journeys
Virtual Reality doesn’t need to be expensive. Even a 360-degree video tour of your physical store or workspace can be turned into a mini VR experience using tools like:
- Matterport
- Seek XR
- Marxent
VR helps Canadian businesses stand out in competitive niches like luxury goods, fashion, and fitness. A virtual showroom gives customers something unforgettable — and boosts conversion, especially among Gen Z and Millennials.
Want to showcase your brand differently? Create your store for free and start with a low-cost VR trial linked to your homepage or landing pages.
Real Examples of AR/VR on Canadian Shopify Stores
1. Article Furniture (Vancouver)
Uses AR to let shoppers visualize couches and tables in their living rooms.
2. Mejuri (Toronto)
Jewellery brand offers 3D and AR previews so customers can “try on” rings and earrings.
3. Fable Home (British Columbia)
Integrates AR for tableware to show size, colour, and fit in real-life kitchen settings.
All these brands reported higher customer engagement, longer time-on-site, and increased add-to-cart rates — thanks to immersive tech. You can follow their lead. Create your store for free and start with one 3D product today.
Is AR/VR Worth the Cost for Small Businesses?
Initial Investment:
- Basic AR tools like Shopify AR or Poplar Studio can be implemented for under $500 CAD per product.
- VR showroom builds start around $1,500 CAD but scale with complexity.
ROI Potential:
- Stores with AR see up to 200% higher conversion rates on those product pages.
- VR showrooms can improve session time by 4x, boosting brand recall.
Even small, well-placed immersive features can yield strong returns — and Canadians respond well to new tech that simplifies online shopping. Consider starting small. Create your store for free and expand as your sales grow.
Best Practices for Canadian Audiences
- Make sure your AR/VR content loads fast on mobile (especially in rural areas with limited bandwidth).
- Use both English and French descriptions where possible (especially in Québec).
- Focus on categories where tactile decisions matter: furniture, eyewear, clothing, cosmetics, appliances.
- Offer tutorials: “How to use AR” buttons help first-timers feel confident.
Canadians trust technology that makes life easier — and immersive commerce delivers that.
