XPO Logistics Adds Augmented Reality to Improve Last Mile Experience

XPO Logistics wants to use new visualization technology to help customers decide if heavy goods, such as furniture or appliances, are what they expected before the items get delivered.

XPO has announced a plan to add augmented reality technology to its Ship XPO consumer self-service platform. Augmented reality is a technology that overlays a virtual object onto a real image or video. For the Ship XPO platform, shoppers can use augmented reality virtually visualize items like sofas, beds, and appliances within their home, giving consumers a chance to return a purchase before it is even shipped.

XPO expects AR to become part of Ship XPO later this year. The company has recently added other new technologies to Ship XPO including voice integration, allowing users to track purchases through XPO’s last mile network using an Amazon Echo or Google Home.

 “Augmented reality is another innovation that our retail and e-commerce customers can offer to consumers, providing more control over the shopping experience,” said Troy Cooper, president of XPO Logistics. “The technology creates a virtual image of how an item will look in a given room, dramatically decreasing the likelihood of returns. Augmented reality enhances the efficiency of the entire last mile process, reducing time inside the home and the risk of product damage.”

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