BACKGROUND

Wanna Kicks is an iOS augmented reality application that allows you to "try on" a variety of different footwear models pre-loaded into the application. You simply choose a pair of kicks from the list of 3D models, point your camera at your feet and within seconds you'll be virtually wearing your chosen footwear.

Wannaby is an Augmented Reality Commerce company based out of Belarus, with a mission to break down online shopping barriers. The startup is building a mass market mobile AR platform and more technology allowing consumers to virtually try-on shoes, jewelry and apparel before making a purchase. The brand also boasts the AR application "Wanna Nails" which allows users to virtually try out different nail colors.

Wannaby uses sophisticated “3D geometry algorithms” together with neural networks to identify the position of the shoe in space. To onboard sneakers into the app, Wannaby utilizes its own studio to create bespoke 3D models.

APPLICATION EXPERIENCE

The application provides over 35 different sneaker options to try out, including brands like Nike, Adidas, and Vans. Just point your iPhone camera at your feet and the shoes render on. The 3D models are impressively accurate and detailed, and although slightly enlarged, they are an accurate representation of what the real sneakers would look like. Even when walking around, the models track well with your feet. Move the camera around your foot and you can see a full view of every part of the shoe.

One drawback is that using a mirror to look at the kicks is a bit difficult. In this case, it helps to have a friend who can take a video or snap a photo of you trying out your augmented reality shoes. Sometimes movement can cause the shoes to slightly elevate off your feet, and shooting a video of you walking will result in a lot of 'flashing' on and off of the shoes. Still this is on par with the industry standard, as you can only expect the phone's processing power to do so much.

CONCLUSION

Wannaby's mission to break down online shopping barriers has just begun, and the company is on the right track with Wanna Kicks. The true potential of phone-based augmented reality technology is constantly growing, and functional tools like this give us a glimpse into how augmented reality could change the way we shop and do regular daily tasks in the future.