THERE ARE MANY companies in the Virtual Try-On space; Ditto Technologies differentiates itself with a 180 degree head turn so patients can see themselves from all angles. It sells by subscription to in-store retailers, who use its app on an iPad. Another popular company, Fitting Box, has gained all types of customers, from independent opticians, brands, buying groups and retailers to luxury players and e-retailers.
Fitting Box
Augmented reality for eyewear with a virtual mirror to allow consumers to try on glasses in real time.
(884) 834-2860, fittingbox.com
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Vari
Virtual Try On Application
(516) 570-2723, varieyewear.com
Ditto Technologies
Ditto uses a high-quality 3D rendition to encourage a natural fit.
(707) 726-6405, ditto.com
Transitions
The augmented reality try-on experience uses Facebook to allow users to see themselves in 13 lens colors.
(800) 533-2081, transitions.com
Lensabl
This Virtual try-on feature helps users find the best frames from home.
(800) 984 5367, lensabl.com
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Thema Optical
Virtual Eyewear Assistant biometric tech lets you design eyewear to fit your measurements.
(786) 803-8881, thema-optical.com
LensCrafters
The MyLook simulator takes photos in-store on a sales associate’s tablet to show side-by-side images of customers in different frames.
(877) 753-6727, lenscrafters.com
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VSP
Eyeconic, created for those in the VSP network who prefer to shop online, features 3D technology that lets consumers remotely try on eyewear.
(855) 393-2664, eyeconic.com
Smart Ways To Use VTO Optio
Dr. Daniel Bintz, Vision Source, Elk City, OK
Frame try on apps spark interest and give people an idea of what colors, shapes, and styles look good on them before they come in. They can send “What do you think?” selfies to anyone. We started using Fitting Box three years ago. It can be accessed via our website and FB page and in the office. I made a sign explaining how to start. I’m also in the process of setting up at least two more stations using our website as the portal in our waiting area. We have a full-service coffee and smoothie shop in the clinic, so we’re looking for ways to create synergy to shop while relaxing with a drink. It also plants the seed of having more than a single pair of glasses. We may have a frame but not in the color they like; we can then pull it up on Fitting Box.
Lisa Verraros, LensCrafters, Oak Brook, IL
The LensCrafters’ MyLook app launched in stores in 2011 to equip sales associates with iPads to help customers find the perfect frame. Customers can compare up to four frames. At first they say, “I can just take a selfie” but when I explain that I can show them four frames side by side they agree. After seeing the pictures, they quickly start to narrow down their options. MyLook makes it easy to share frame options with friends and family for a second opinion and we typically get an immediate response. I have customers who end up buying more than one frame after seeing how they look. We offer a 30-day refund, but MyLook has made customers more confident in their selections. It has also increased multiple frame purchases and retention.