MAC Cosmetics develops augmented reality

Now you can try out new make-up from the comfort of your own home with M-A-C

M∙A∙C’S NEW AUGMENTED REALITY TOOL LETS CUSTOMERS TRY ON PRODUCTS WHILE SOCIALLY DISTANCING AT HOME

M∙A∙C is making online shopping in the age of social distancing easier than ever through its new Virtual Try-On feature, which lets consumers instantly sample products on pictures or live videos of themselves before ever making a purchase.

The try-on offering uses YouCam’s augmented reality technology to create photo-realistic simulations that can be tested on any skin tone and adapted to different textures, mattes, sheens, glosses, and more than 200 shades of lip or eye colours. Usage of the tool continues to grow as more consumers turn online for purchases during the COVID-19 pandemic. “As pioneers in digital innovation, we understand that there is no better way to connect with our consumers than through a convenient, personalized online shopping experience,” said Ukonwa Ojo, Global Chief Marketing Officer and Senior Vice President, Global Marketing, M∙A∙C Cosmetics. “Through our Virtual Try-On feature, we’re able to bring a quintessential element of the in-store experience right to our consumers’ homes.”

To get started, consumers should visit MAC’s Virtual Try On page and choose a product to sample. Users will then be prompted to enable their live camera or upload a photo of themselves or a model. From there, consumers can test out various swatches to instantly find the right shade before making a purchase. For further assistance, consumers can also chat live with a M∙A∙C artist.

M∙A∙C first began testing augmented reality technology in 2017 by installing virtual try-on mirrors in select stores. To date, more than 120 stores globally have installed the virtual tryon mirrors, which leverage facial and 3D video makeup rendering technology to create a curated set of M∙A∙C shades and looks to be tried on by a user instantly.

“We believe our YouCam Makeup AI and AR technology has revolutionized how consumers discover, try and buy beauty,” said Perfect Corp. founder and CEO, Alice Chang. “MAC continues to lead the industry in this critical area and we are thrilled to partner with them to make this virtual-try on offering even more accessible to consumers who are socially distancing at home.”

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Ali Monfaradi Launches Region’s First Online Jiu Jitsu Course Platform

SMEs pivoting during covid-19 means the region’s fitness sector goes digital. Ali Monfaradi, internationally acclaimed Brazilian Jiu jitsu (BJJ) athlete and World Champion, understands that the changing landscape is forcing businesses to change gears and innovate fast. With this in mind, Ali launched the region’s first Jiu jitsu online course platform – Elements Online.

“The change in consumer behavior means that the fitness sector needs to accelerate its digitization efforts. This is a project that has been in the works for a long time and I’m very proud to be the first regional BJJ athlete to have created a platform with original Jiu jitsu training material that can be accessed worldwide.” says Ali Monfaradi, head coach and owner of Bahrain’s Elements Jiu Jitsu Academy.

While BJJ online courses have traditionally been created and launched by a handful of top tier international athletes and brands, this is a unique initiative to the region and is a testament to the growth of Jiu jitsu in the GCC through the accomplishments of its athletes.

The first course launched on the platform is a beginner’s guide to Jiu jitsu fundamentals, titled Everything You Need To Know Before Getting Your Blue Belt. “It is a very detailed and systematic approach to the essentials of Jiu jitsu. Fundamentals is the core understanding you need to be able to make it as an athlete and go ahead and perform on international stages. The course spans 13 chapters and 65 lessons.”

While facing the challenge of identifying new business opportunities, Ali’s advice to other entrepreneurs in the sports and fitness sector is to look to their customers. “How can you provide them value with your products and services during these times? An understanding of their needs will guide you on how to pivot your business to meet them. In our case, our community of Jiu jitsu practitioners is at the core of what we do in Elements JJ, so keeping that communication line active and engaged is important to us.,”

Elements JJ has also launched an online live personal training service and set up an online shop to ensure students can still enjoy products while fitness academies are still closed.

Jiu jitsu enthusiasts can visit online.elementsjiujitsuacademy.com to learn more about the course of follow @alimonfaradi on Instagram for more updates.