Brands, build an interactive ecosystem with visual chatbots

Chatbots using image recognition and AI will create revolutionary, engaging interactions between brands and consumers. Visual bots are automated conversations on messaging platforms that use images to connect to a brands’ digital content or service. Users will now take a picture, send it to the appropriate bot of their go-to messaging platform (Messenger, Kik, WeChat etc) and access associated content, or services.

Brands will connect Physical and Digital worlds thanks to AI

Image recognition will revolutionise the transition between the physical and digital world. Brands will encourage users to spend more time discovering their content all the while providing them with relevant information anytime, anywhere.

Department stores are starting to develop bots that let users find their dream clothes (within their catalogue) by just snapping the item itself. The journey starts in the street, passes through the chat platform and links to a digital brand exploration or right to the e-commerce.

Outdoor, by snapping this same department store campaign, users will be invited to experience a virtual world where the brand campaigns are brought to life. They will be invited to shop the products worn in the ad, or to browse the latest collection. Consumers can access this information by taking a picture of an ad in a magazine as well. Overall all visual material will allow this: from business cards and labels to packaging and visuals on shelves.

Thanks to such bots customers will be entering connected stores. They will be able to use their phone in addition to consulting advisors, to access additional information through an array of digital and interactive features.

Your favourite brands’ Instagram post of the must-have sneakers can be shared to their bot in order to purchase them, read stories about collaborations, see product reviews.

With bots, retailers will be able to create a global ecosystem that will link their advertising campaigns and social content to additional information, e-commerce, in store and outdoor, from home or directly in the street.

Brands’ connected ecosystems will enhance customer experiences

“The concept of functional integration explains how world-leading brands including Nike, Apple, and Google have driven digital business transformation by building connected ecosystems that enhance customer experiences, lock in loyalty, and create competitive advantage. ” Connected by design, Barry Wacksman & Chris Stutzman

This bridge between the physical and digital will help to create services around physical goods.

The winners of our economy are connecting their goods and services, creating added value for consumers. It is not about connecting a product, rather connecting the user. Brands now constantly wonder what services and solutions they can provide on top of their products. Bots will help drive customer’s actions by incorporating call-to-actions:

· With a snap of a beer bottle label, the bot will recommend users Beer Cocktail Recipes and food pairings,

· When a user snaps their friend’s book, the bot will propose they read the summary and selected quotes,

· Users can snap a Sephora advertisement to access the brand’s sponsored make-up tutorial.

Visual chatbots will help brands build a connected universe, complete omni channel experience, adding value for their clients. These clients will access a great UX, increasing positive Word of Mouth, thus retention & acquisition, and overall loyalty.

Join the visual chat!

Thanks for reading this.

Marine Boucherit, Head of Marketing at Deepomatic.com