Google has introduced an innovative AI-based shopping feature designed to give users a realistic preview of how various clothing items might look when worn. Titled “try it on,” this feature is currently accessible in the United States via Google Search Labs.
### Getting Started with “Try It On”
To utilize this feature, users first need to enable it within Google Search Labs. After activation, you can upload a full-length photograph of yourself and navigate to the Google Shopping tab to browse for clothing options. When you select an outfit image from the search results, a “try it on” button will appear in the enlarged view of that item in the right-hand panel. By clicking this button, users can see a virtual representation of themselves in the outfit within approximately ten seconds. While the visualization may not be flawless, it provides a useful approximation of how the clothing might appear on you.
### The Technology Behind the Feature
Google asserts that this feature operates on a sophisticated AI model, which has been trained to understand the dynamics between clothing and body shapes. This capability allows the AI to effectively mimic how fabrics drape, stretch, and conform to various body types. However, it is important to note that not every piece of clothing is compatible with this tool. Retailers must choose to participate in the program, and, as of now, the AI is limited to displaying shirts, pants, dresses, and skirts. Categories like swimwear and costumes currently lack usable images, but regular clothing items, including jackets and coats, are generally available for virtual fitting.
### Exploring Fashion Options
For example, while browsing Google Shopping, users can discover replicas of Elvis Presley’s outfits, such as the iconic ensembles he wore during his 1966 comeback. By clicking a few buttons, you can visualize yourself dressed like the King across different time periods. The feature even allows changes to footwear, providing a fuller experience of how you might look in these historical outfits. Images generated by the feature can be shared easily through the Google mobile app, enabling users to get feedback from friends on their new looks.
### Noteworthy AI Enhancements
The AI technology behind this feature makes several refinements to the preview images to enhance realism. For instance, when attempting a vibrant summer outfit, the AI not only updates your wardrobe but also adjusts the accompanying shoes and socks to match your stance and dimensions. Despite incorporating minor adjustments, certain imperfections are noticeable, such as a discrepancy in leg shape or texture. Nevertheless, the ease with which users can visualize themselves in different styles suggests this feature could significantly influence the future of online shopping.
### Implications for E-Commerce
While the “try it on” feature may not completely replace the experience of physically trying on clothes, it serves as an effective digital alternative to checking an outfit in front of a mirror. This capability could greatly reduce the uncertainties associated with online shopping, particularly when evaluating color and fit.
### Reducing Returns
The ability to visualize clothing prior to purchase is likely to appeal to many users, potentially making this a sought-after feature on Google Shopping. With other retailers likely to adopt similar AI-driven tools, the opportunity to see yourself in various bold or unconventional outfits could help mitigate the common hesitance many consumers feel about trying new styles.
The challenge of excessive returns, which lead to wasted resources and packaging, may become less severe if customers can accurately gauge how clothing will look on them before making a purchase. This shift could encourage retailers to join the program, eager to enhance customer satisfaction and reduce return rates.
### Future of Personal Shopping
Looking ahead, this technological advancement could pave the way for more personalized fashion guidance through AI. Users might soon find themselves with a virtual stylist capable of providing tailored recommendations and fit checks, expanding the digital shopping experience beyond visual fittings and into comprehensive style advice.
In summary, Google’s “try it on” feature represents a significant leap forward in the use of AI for fashion retail, promising to reshape the online shopping landscape by making it more intuitive and engaging for consumers.
