Augmented Reality on TikTok and Instagram: A Game-Changer for Brand Engagement

Louise Royer
Antaeus AR
Published in
4 min readSep 13, 2023

In the fast-paced world of social media, staying relevant is a constant challenge for brands. As consumer preferences evolve, so must marketing strategies. Augmented Reality (AR) has emerged as a dynamic tool that can revolutionize brand engagement on popular platforms like TikTok and Instagram. In this article, we’ll explore how AR can be a game-changer for brands, enhancing user experiences and driving tangible benefits.

1. Immersive Product Try-Ons

One of the most compelling uses of AR for brands is virtual product try-ons. By integrating AR filters and effects into their TikTok and Instagram campaigns, brands can allow users to virtually try on their products. Whether it’s makeup, clothing, or accessories, AR enables potential customers to see how a product fits or looks on them before making a purchase decision. This immersive experience reduces uncertainty and increases the likelihood of a purchase, boosting sales for the brand.

Here’s the link to try out the “Von Dutch Cap” filter: Von Dutch Cap on TikTok

2. Interactive Advertising

AR can transform passive advertising into interactive and engaging experiences. Brands can create AR filters and effects that enable users to interact with their products in fun and creative ways.

Here’s the link to try out the “Style the Look” filter: Style the Look on TikTok

3. Gamified Contests and Challenges

TikTok and Instagram are known for their challenges and trends. Brands can leverage AR to create gamified challenges that encourage user participation. By integrating AR elements into these challenges, brands can add an extra layer of excitement. Users may need to use an AR filter to complete a challenge or unlock special rewards. This not only promotes brand engagement but also fosters a sense of community among users.

Take, for instance, “Ocean Run” is a 3D Runner Game set in the depths of the ocean, where players embark on a mission to collect plastic waste while dodging the turtles. By gamifying the process of cleaning up the virtual ocean environment, this game not only entertains but also educates players about the critical issue of plastic pollution.

You can access the “Ocean Run” game through this link: Ocean Run on Instagram

4. Location-Based Experiences

AR can enhance location-based marketing efforts on TikTok and Instagram. Brands can create AR experiences tied to specific geographic locations, such as pop-up stores or events. When users visit these locations and engage with the brand’s AR content, they can access exclusive offers, discounts, or content. This strategy not only drives foot traffic but also creates a sense of exclusivity and excitement around the brand.

For example, the game “Anti-Covid” is an augmented reality first-person shooter (AR FPS) game that was originally created for an exhibition with the primary goal of raising awareness that despite its invisibility, the COVID virus remains present in our lives.

Play “Anti-Covid” by following this link: Anti-Covid on Instagram

5. Personalized Content

AR enables brands to deliver personalized content to users based on their preferences and behaviors. By analyzing user data, brands can create AR filters and effects that cater to individual tastes.

Access the filters by clicking on the links: Pose like a Zara Model on TikTok & Rugby World Cup on Tik Tok

6. User-Generated Content

Encouraging user-generated content (UGC) is a powerful way to build brand loyalty. Brands can create AR tools that allow users to incorporate branded elements into their content. This not only promotes the brand but also empowers users to express themselves creatively. When users share UGC featuring brand-related AR effects, it amplifies brand visibility and authenticity.

In conclusion, Augmented Reality (AR) on TikTok and Instagram represents far more than a passing trend; it stands as a strategic asset for brands to elevate engagement. Whether through virtual product trials, interactive advertising, gamified challenges, personalized content, location-based experiences, or the encouragement of user-generated content, AR offers an expansive toolkit to captivate and connect with users. By embracing AR, brands can stay at the forefront of digital marketing, delivering immersive experiences that resonate with today’s consumers. As social media platforms continue to evolve, brands that harness the power of AR will undoubtedly stand out and thrive in the digital landscape.

louiseryr@gmail.com

royerlouise.com

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