The world of online shopping is changing fast, and while Western giants like eBay still dominate global markets, Indian e-commerce platforms are quietly innovating in ways that leave the West behind. One standout example is Myntra’s Augmented Reality (AR) Try-On feature, which lets shoppers virtually “wear” clothes before buying.
But how did an Indian company perfect this tech before many Western retailers? The answer lies in understanding their unique market challenges, tech-savvy consumers, and clever problem-solving. If you’re also inclined to modern designs, try playing Dragon Slots on the smoothest, most user-friendly platform online!
Why AR Try-On Is a Game-Changer
Shopping online for clothes has always had one big problem: you can’t try before you buy. Returns are costly for businesses and frustrating for customers. Myntra’s AR Try-On solves this by letting users see how outfits look on them, without stepping into a store.
How It Works
- Open the app and select an item.
- Tap the “Try-On” button.
- Point your phone’s camera at yourself.
- The AR feature overlays the clothing onto your body in real time.
No more guessing if a shirt fits or if a dress suits your style. This tech bridges the gap between offline and online shopping.
Why the West Is Lagging
Western retailers have experimented with AR, but adoption has been slow. Many still rely on basic size charts or AI recommendations. Myntra, however, launched its feature at scale, making it a standard part of the shopping experience.
The Secret Behind Their Success
So, how did they crack AR try-ons before other industry giants? Three key reasons:
1. Solving a Bigger Problem
In the West, returns are inconvenient but manageable. In South Asia, logistics are more challenging; poor addresses, unreliable couriers, and longer return times make exchanges a nightmare. Myntra’s AR Try-On reduces return rates by up to 25%, saving millions in costs.
2. Mobile-First Consumers
The country skipped the desktop era and went straight to smartphones. Myntra’s app is designed for mobile users, with lightweight AR features that work even on budget phones. Western retailers, meanwhile, still optimize for desktop shoppers.
3. Localized AI Training
Myntra’s AR is trained on Indian body types, skin tones, and fashion preferences. Western AR models often struggle with diversity, but Myntra’s tech works seamlessly for its audience.
How Their E-Commerce Is Outpacing the West
Other e-commerce companies like Nykaa (for beauty) and Lenskart (for eyewear) also use these options effectively. Here’s why they are leading:
1. Faster Adoption of New Tech
Indian startups move quickly. They test, fail, and iterate faster than Western corporations bogged down by bureaucracy. Myntra’s AR feature went from idea to launch in months—something rare in the West.
2. Hyper-Personalization
Their apps use AI to customize shopping experiences. Myntra suggests outfits based on local trends, weather, and past purchases. Western platforms still rely on generic recommendations.
3. Cost-Effective Innovation
Indian companies build frugal tech. Myntra’s products run smoothly on low-end phones, while other options often need high-end devices. This makes the feature accessible to millions.
What the West Can Learn
Western e-commerce giants should take notes. Here’s what they can learn from Myntra’s success:
- Solve real local problems – Don’t just copy-paste tech; adapt it to customer pain points.
- Optimize for mobile – The future is smartphones, not desktops.
- Embrace diversity – Train AI on varied body types and styles for better accuracy.
The Role of Government and Startup Culture
One overlooked factor behind their success is their thriving startup ecosystem and supportive government policies. Initiatives like Startup India and Digital India have fueled innovation by providing funding, tax benefits, and infrastructure for tech firms.
Myntra itself was a startup before being acquired by Flipkart. This culture of risk-taking and rapid scaling allowed it to test AR try-ons early. The government’s push for AI and machine learning adoption also played a role. Myntra’s parent company, Flipkart, collaborates with research institutions to refine its algorithms.
