Microsoft shows off the future of retail with the Kinect, helps attract and engage shoppers

Ron

Microsoft's Kinect sensor

Have you ever wondered what Microsoft’s Kinect would be like if used in a retail setting? Microsoft has rolled out three new videos showcasing the Kinect being used in stores and it sure does look like the future of shopping.

In the videos embedded below, Microsoft wants everyone to see how the Kinect can help retailers attract new customers and engage shoppers in deeper ways. “They offer examples of ways that digital signs powered by Kinect for Windows can draw customers into the business – making it possible for retailers to share offerings, cross-sell and upsell merchandise, bring the “endless aisle” concept to life, and, ultimately, inspire shoppers to purchase. And all of this is accomplished in a beautiful way that feels natural to the customer,” Microsoft stated in an official blog post.

Microsoft recently rolled out Kinect for Windows SDK 1.8, which contains the features designed to enable the development of “higher-quality digital signage applications.” In essence, with the Kinect, one can interact with large screens in stores, explore virtual merchandise by using gestures, and partake in immersive experiences that can help improve the purchasing process. The Kinect provides customers with an easy, engaging, and fun shopping experience.

A few stores have already begun experimenting with the Kinect. “So many companies have already created exciting retail experiences with Kinect for Windows: Bloomingdales, Build-a-Bear, Coca-Cola, Mattel, Nissan, Pepsi, and others. We are excited to see the new ways that Kinect for Windows is being applied in retail,” Microsoft adds.

Take a look at the videos below.