WayfairView app debuts in Verizon stores

BOSTON — WayfairView, the proprietary 3D augmented reality (AR) application developed by Wayfair Inc., debuted today in all Verizon stores as a featured app on the new ASUS ZenFone AR.

The app uses Tango, Google’s AR technology, to let consumers see and manipulate virtual furniture and décor at full scale, in their homes. Because Tango operates on the Android system, WayfairView is available only on Androids.

WayfairView comes with a $25 Wayfair gift card for a limited time.

The release of WayfairView precedes Wayfair’s second quarter earnings announcement, scheduled for Aug. 8.

Wayfair’s 2D application remains available on all other mobile platforms. It allows shoppers to choose an item on the Wayfair website and view its virtual placement in the room.

Apple announced in June its AR development platform, called ARKit, which Apple has said it plans to integrate into its much anticipated iPhone 8, rumored to be released this fall as a the most redesigned iPhone thus far. ARKit allows consumers to create their own AR app.

Also in June, Ikea’s Michael Valdsgaard announced that the Swedish home furnishings designer and retailer will partner with Apple to build a shopping app that allows consumers to virtually try out furniture in their homes. That app is expected to launch this fall.

Boston-based Wayfair, founded in 2002, offers eight million home furnishings products through its e-commerce sites in the U.S. and Europe, which include Wayfair, Joss & Main, AllModern, DwellStudio and Birch Lane.