- How to E-commerce's Newsletter
- Posts
- #196 HTE - Apple's VRvolution: Marketing Marvel!🚀
#196 HTE - Apple's VRvolution: Marketing Marvel!🚀
Good morning, readers!
Get ready to buckle up for an exhilarating ride into the e-commerce universe with HTE’s awesome newsletter. We're here to be your ultimate guide, serving up a delightful concoction of tips for DTC brands and beyond.
But wait, here's a mind-blowing fun fact to kickstart your day: Did you know that the very first online purchase was a groovy Sting CD back in 1994?
Armed with this quirky knowledge, we're all set to unleash industry insights, expert advice, and game-changing strategies to skyrocket your brand's success.
Ready?
Let's dive headfirst into the magical world of e-commerce!
Alright, so let’s get right to it!
This newsletter is going to dive into:
🍎 Apple's Vision Pro Headset: Paving the Way for Revolutionary AR and VR Marketing Experiences
📢 Optimizing Google Ads for E-commerce: Technical Tips for Enhanced Campaign Performance
🎉 TikTok Shop Celebrates a Year of Empowering Brands and Sellers in the Social Commerce Realm
👩🏻💻 Revealing the Journey to CPG Product Discovery and Research
📹 TikTok vs. YouTube vs. Instagram - Who Will Reign Supreme?
💼 HTE Job Board
📕 Top Reads Of The Week
⚙️ Plenty Of Jobs Await You!
So, scroll down to THE VERY END & read up on what’s yet to come your way!
Apple's Vision Pro Headset: Paving the Way for Revolutionary AR and VR Marketing Experiences
Apple's recent announcement of the Vision Pro headset has generated excitement among tech enthusiasts and marketers alike. Set to be available early next year, the Vision Pro headset promises to bring new possibilities for augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) engagement. Let's delve into what we know so far about this device and explore the implications it holds for marketers venturing into AR and VR experiences.
At the heart of the Vision Pro headset is what Apple refers to as "spatial computing." The demos showcased at Apple's Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) revealed how users can interact with a digital layer overlaid on their real-world environment through AR experiences. Imagine being able to select and run apps from floating menus in your living room or office, using voice commands, subtle hand gestures, and eye movements to manipulate objects and apps.
The Vision Pro headset goes beyond AR and also offers the capability to immerse users in virtual reality environments. Users can choose from a range of virtual environments and adjust the level of immersion according to their preferences. This opens up opportunities for users to engage in full VR experiences, further expanding the headset's potential.
In terms of media consumption, Vision Pro users will have the ability to watch movies and streaming content. What sets the Vision Pro apart from traditional TV screens is its ability to fill the user's field of vision, creating a truly immersive viewing experience. Moreover, content tailored for the Vision Pro can take advantage of its "spatial audio" feature, which provides a realistic audio experience that makes sounds appear to emanate naturally from the user's surroundings.
The entry of Apple into the AR/VR space holds significance for marketers. Just as the iPhone revolutionized the mobile marketing ecosystem, Apple's foray into AR and VR technology is expected to make a significant impact. Marketers are eager to see how Apple's influence and innovative approach will shape the industry, making it worthwhile to wait for their contribution.
While AR experiences already exist through smartphone apps, the Vision Pro headset aims to make AR wearable, offering a more intuitive interaction through natural eye movements and hand gestures. This advancement can enhance the user experience and make AR more accessible and engaging for a wider audience.
Now let's talk about the price point. The Vision Pro comes with a price tag of $3,499, which is approximately half the cost of Apple's newest Mac Pro. It's important to note that this price places the Vision Pro as a premium product, with consumers expected to spend three times more than they would for an iPhone. For businesses considering equipping their employees with Vision Pro headsets, it will require a significant investment comparable to purchasing new laptops or other substantial hardware upgrades.
The adoption of Vision Pro will likely start with consumers who are enticed by the opportunity to watch their favorite shows in a fully immersive manner. This initial interest could act as a gateway for users to explore the world of AR and VR applications. Another adoption strategy is the possibility of employees using VR at work and bringing the devices home. Meta's push for using their Meta Quest Pro headset for videoconferencing and other business applications aligns with this approach.
During Apple's WWDC presentation, the company showcased how Vision Pro utilizes machine learning to create lifelike 3D models of users' faces. This feature allows users to have video conferences without their headsets being visible, presenting a potentially more acceptable alternative to virtual meetings that utilize cartoonish avatars.
As Vision Pro introduces the visionOS operating system and a dedicated Vision app store, a flood of AR and VR apps is anticipated. This will pave the way for marketers in various industries to explore the possibilities of AR and VR in their campaigns. While widespread adoption for general purposes like virtual meetings may still be a few years away, businesses are already considering VR for training and safety initiatives.
The logical progression in marketing lies in starting with AR marketing before moving into VR marketing. As AR gains more users and traction over the next 2-4 years, it sets the stage for VR marketing to become increasingly important in 4-7 years. When a specific VR ecosystem garners a significant user base, it becomes crucial for brands to establish their presence within that ecosystem. However, it's worth noting that we are still a long way from a fully interoperable metaverse where users can seamlessly navigate different spaces and make purchases using digital assets. VisionOS users will be part of Apple's walled garden, and reaching them may require a substantial investment.
In conclusion, Apple's announcement of the Vision Pro headset has sparked excitement and anticipation among marketers. The introduction of spatial computing, immersive experiences, and the potential for AR and VR engagement opens up new opportunities for innovative marketing campaigns. As we eagerly await the arrival of the Vision Pro headset, marketers should start considering how they can leverage AR and VR to create impactful experiences that captivate their target audience within the evolving digital landscape.
Optimizing Google Ads for E-commerce: Technical Tips for Enhanced Campaign Performance
When it comes to running Google Ads for e-commerce, there are several technical aspects to consider in order to optimize your campaigns and achieve better results. Here are some important tips related to the technical aspects of Google Ads for e-commerce:
Conversion Tracking: Implementing conversion tracking is essential to measure the effectiveness of your campaigns. Set up conversion tracking codes on your website to track specific actions such as purchases, sign-ups, or form submissions. This data will help you evaluate the performance of your ads, keywords, and landing pages, and make informed decisions to improve your campaign's ROI.
Google Analytics Integration: Integrate your Google Ads account with Google Analytics to gain deeper insights into user behavior and campaign performance. Linking these platforms allows you to analyze detailed data on user engagement, bounce rates, conversion paths, and more. Use this information to optimize your campaigns and identify opportunities for improvement.
Website Tracking Tags: In addition to conversion tracking, use website tracking tags such as Google Analytics tags or other third-party tracking tools to gather valuable data about user behavior on your website. These tags can provide insights into page views, time spent on site, product interactions, and other metrics that can help you refine your targeting and optimize your ads.
Mobile Optimization: With the growing number of users accessing the internet via mobile devices, it is crucial to optimize your Google Ads campaigns for mobile. Ensure that your website and landing pages are mobile-friendly, responsive, and have fast load times. Use mobile-specific ad formats and consider adjusting your bids for mobile devices to maximize the impact of your campaigns.
Ad Scheduling: Take advantage of ad scheduling to display your ads during specific times of the day or days of the week when your target audience is most likely to be active. Analyze your campaign data and use the scheduling feature to adjust your bids and ad visibility accordingly. This allows you to allocate your budget effectively and reach your audience when they are most receptive.
Quality Score Optimization: Google uses a Quality Score algorithm to determine the relevancy and effectiveness of your ads. Aim to improve your Quality Score by optimizing your keywords, ad relevance, landing page experience, and click-through rates. Higher Quality Scores can result in lower costs per click and improved ad rankings, leading to better campaign performance.
Ad Testing: Regularly test different ad variations to identify what resonates best with your target audience. Experiment with different headlines, descriptions, call-to-action phrases, and visuals to find the most effective combination. A/B testing can provide valuable insights into which elements drive higher click-through rates and conversions, allowing you to refine your ads for optimal performance.
Ad Extensions and Structured Data: Utilize ad extensions to enhance the visibility and performance of your ads. Take advantage of structured data markup to provide more detailed product information within your ads, such as price, availability, and ratings. This can make your ads more appealing and informative, increasing the chances of attracting qualified clicks and conversions.
Paying attention to the technical aspects of your Google Ads campaigns for e-commerce is crucial for optimizing performance and driving better results. Implement conversion tracking, integrate with Google Analytics, use website tracking tags, optimize for mobile, leverage ad scheduling, aim for higher Quality Scores, conduct ad testing, and make use of ad extensions and structured data.
By implementing these technical tips, you can enhance the effectiveness of your Google Ads campaigns and increase your chances of success in the competitive e-commerce landscape.
TikTok Shop Celebrates a Year of Empowering Brands and Sellers in the Social Commerce Realm
TikTok Shop, the renowned destination for short-form mobile videos, is elated to announce its momentous first-year celebration. This occasion marks a significant milestone for TikTok Shop, as it has swiftly emerged as a dominant force in the intersection of entertainment and commerce. By offering a seamless integration of these two worlds, TikTok Shop has propelled numerous brands and sellers to thrive within the dynamic landscape of social commerce. In honor of this celebration, TikTok Shop is delighted to unveil exclusive 6.6 birthday sale offerings in collaboration with its esteemed partner brands.
Over the course of its inaugural year, TikTok Shop has witnessed remarkable growth in user engagement. Notably, there has been an impressive 117% year-on-year increase in the number of sellers onboarded onto the platform within the past six months alone. This surge in seller adoption has predominantly come from small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs), showcasing TikTok Shop's ability to empower entrepreneurs and drive economic growth. Furthermore, there has been a remarkable 53% year-on-year increase in sellers who achieved breakeven status in the same period, indicating the platform's efficacy in facilitating long-term success.
Among the top five categories that have thrived on TikTok Shop in the Philippines are Beauty and Personal Care, Womenswear, Menswear and Undergarments, Shoes, and Phones and Electronics. These categories have not only experienced substantial growth but have also witnessed a consistent rise in monthly purchasers, demonstrating the platform's influence in driving consumer engagement and sales.
Empowering local communities to grow and thrive lies at the core of TikTok Shop's mission. The platform's impact extends beyond its first-year celebration, as it continues to foster the growth and success of brands and creators while strengthening their communities.
In an effort to further support local SMBs, TikTok Shop organized its first Learning Summit in February 2023, drawing nearly 500 creators, personalities, brands, and agencies from the TikTok community. The summit served as an educational platform, equipping participants with valuable insights into Shoppertainment and other opportunities presented by TikTok Shop for brands and businesses. Furthermore, TikTok Shop has onboarded local farmers and agropreneurs through its BuyLocal Bazaar, a partnership with PLDT-Smart and the Department of Agriculture. This initiative enables homegrown goods to gain direct access to consumers and expand their revenue opportunities by joining TikTok Shop.
TikTok Shop remains steadfast in prioritizing consumer rights protection and ensuring a safe and trustworthy space for customers and merchants alike. To uphold these principles, TikTok Shop has forged partnerships with official brands and implemented strict policies and guidelines for merchants, guaranteeing secure transactions and the authenticity of products. These measures instill confidence in customers, allowing them to shop with peace of mind and trust the integrity of the products available on the platform.
In its commitment to innovation, TikTok Shop continues to introduce groundbreaking features such as the TikTok Shopping Center. This feature serves as a hub where customers can discover new products and brands, fostering genuine connections between sellers and shoppers. By integrating various sale campaigns like the monthly double day, bimonthly payday, Super Brand Day, and weekly sale Friday FriYAY, sellers can leverage the Shopping Center to drive sales and enhance customer engagement.
As the first-year birthday celebration unfolds, users can eagerly anticipate the Favorite Brands Festival birthday sale. TikTok Shop has partnered with a diverse array of local and international brands to offer special value-for-money deals to consumers. Shoppers can enjoy exclusive discounts such as 66% off on YOU Beauty products, 67% off on Realme items, 10% off on Sperry footwear, 50% off select Maybelline items, and exciting fashion deals on Penshoppe. From substantial discounts and discounted shipping vouchers to Php 66 Shopping Center deals, users can explore a plethora of offers tailored to their preferences and interests.
Looking ahead, TikTok Shop aims to continue empowering more brands and creators while providing shoppers with even more thrilling opportunities to engage in an innovative online shopping experience. With its successful first year as a testament to its impact, TikTok Shop is set to shape the future of social commerce and redefine the way we discover and engage with brands and products.
Revealing the Journey to CPG Product Discovery and Research
When it comes to consumer packaged goods (CPG) products, the avenues for discovery and research are vast. From Amazon and social platforms to in-store media, marketers have an array of touchpoints to engage with their desired audiences. Understanding how consumers discover and explore CPG products across beauty, food and beverage, and over-the-counter (OTC) health categories can provide invaluable insights for marketers seeking to target their audience effectively.
According to Tinuiti research, social media and TV are the top channels consumers turn to for product discovery in all three categories. However, beauty consumers heavily rely on social media, presenting a prime opportunity for marketers to optimize their reach on that platform. Facebook emerges as the leading platform for product discovery across all categories. Yet, when it comes to Gen Z beauty shoppers, TikTok reigns supreme. Gen Zers are nearly seven times more likely to discover beauty products on TikTok than on Facebook. This preference aligns with the desire to witness beauty products in action—a crucial factor when physical interaction is not possible.
The influencer effect is also a powerful force in the CPG industry. At least 59% of consumers in beauty, food and beverage, and OTC health categories have made purchases based on online influencers' recommendations within the past year. This statistic underscores the growing significance of influencers for brands. By identifying and partnering with influencers who can effectively showcase products to relevant audiences, brands can tap into consumers' trust in influencers as reliable sources of recommendations.
In-store displays or signs rank as the third most influential media type for introducing shoppers to new products across all three categories. As retailers seek to enhance the in-store experience, many are leveraging in-store media to create interactive and digitally immersive environments. Examples include The Kroger Co.'s collaboration with Cooler Screens and Walmart's integration of wall-mounted TVs. These innovations are transforming the physical landscape of stores, offering consumers new avenues to interact, touch, and feel products.
When it comes to online search, retailer ecommerce sites like Walmart and Amazon take the lead as the starting point for shopping searches across all three categories. Amazon dominates as the go-to platform for beauty product searches, while Walmart has solidified its position as a grocery giant, surpassing Amazon's popularity in the food and beverage category. For OTC health products, both retailers claim the top spot.
Once consumers are in-store, traditional search engines play a more significant role in the shopping experience. A significant portion of consumers in each category use search engines while in-store to learn more about products. However, retailer apps have the potential to replace search engines if they continue expanding their capabilities, offering a seamless experience within the app.
When it comes to product details, written reviews hold the most weight for consumers across all categories, according to Tinuiti data. Past purchasers' feedback on taste, scent, and product longevity proves valuable for consumers. Other important elements on product pages include review stars, photos, and comparisons to similar products. The combination of written reviews and photos proves particularly powerful in influencing purchase decisions.
By understanding the nuances of consumer discovery and research patterns, marketers can optimize their strategies to reach and engage their target audience effectively. From leveraging social media and influencers to embracing the power of in-store media and refining online search experiences, brands can connect with consumers at every stage of their CPG product journey.
Short-Form Video Showdown: TikTok vs. YouTube vs. Instagram - Who Will Reign Supreme?
In this corner, we have the reigning champion, TikTok! With an astounding 5.53% average engagement rate, TikTok stands tall as the undisputed leader. Its secret weapon? The ability to unleash viral trends that skyrocket follower counts faster than a rocket launch. No wonder users can't resist posting twice as much content on TikTok compared to other platforms. It's like a content creation frenzy on steroids!
But hold on! Don't underestimate the underdogs! In the opposite corner, we have Instagram Reels, strutting their stuff with a solid 4.36% engagement rate. While they may not claim the highest engagement, Reels know how to captivate audiences like no other. Their watch rates are off the charts, making them a potent tool for brands and creators to hook viewers and keep them glued to the screen. You just can't tear your eyes away!
And let's not forget about YouTube Shorts, lurking in the corner like a stealthy discovery ninja. Though their engagement rate of 3.8% puts them in third place, Shorts excel at something truly unique. They're like the cool kids who show up on your YouTube home page, tantalizing you with recommendations for the long-form content you love. It's a sneak peek into a world of endless entertainment possibilities.
So, what's the game plan? If you're after quick victories and a shot at going viral, TikTok is your go-to corner. But don't underestimate Reels as your trusty communication channel, consistently delivering content to your eager audience. And for those aspiring to conquer the realm of YouTube, don't overlook the power of Shorts in gaining those precious channel subscribers.
In this epic battle of short-form video, each platform has its strengths and serves a unique purpose. It's like having a versatile toolbox to unleash your creative genius and conquer different audiences. So, why limit yourself to just one when you can devise a winning strategy that encompasses all three? The world is your stage, and these platforms are your ringside companions.
Ladies and gentlemen, prepare to be dazzled by the spectacle of short-form video! The battle rages on, and the choice is yours. Will you dance to the beat of TikTok, captivate with Instagram Reels, or conquer with YouTube Shorts? The ring awaits, and the spotlight is yours for the taking. Let the short-form video extravaganza begin! Ding, ding!
HTE Job Board
Are you tired of sifting through countless job postings or struggling to find qualified candidates for your openings? Look no further! Introducing the HTE Job Board, your ultimate destination for hassle-free job searches and seamless recruitment.✨
For Job Seekers: Are you seeking new opportunities that align with your skills and aspirations? The HTE Job Board is here to simplify your job search process. With our user-friendly platform and extensive database of job listings, you can explore a wide range of positions across various industries. Whether you're a recent graduate, a seasoned professional, or anywhere in between, we have the right job for you.🔎
What sets us apart: 💼
🎯Extensive Job Listings: Access a comprehensive selection of job postings from top companies, ensuring you have access to a diverse array of opportunities.
📬Advanced Search Filters: Easily narrow down your search based on location, industry, experience level, and more, so you can find the perfect fit.
🖥️ Job Alerts: Stay updated with the latest job opportunities by setting up customized job alerts tailored to your preferences. Never miss out on a potential career-changing opportunity again.
💪 User-Friendly Interface: Our intuitive platform provides a seamless browsing experience, making it quick and convenient for you to navigate through job postings and submit applications.
For Recruiters: Finding the right talent for your organization can be challenging. That's where the HTE Job Board comes in. We provide a streamlined recruitment process that connects you with highly qualified candidates who match your specific requirements.
Why choose us:
📢 Targeted Candidate Pool: Our job board attracts a diverse range of skilled professionals actively seeking new opportunities, ensuring you have access to a talent pool aligned with your industry and needs.
💻 Efficient Job Posting: Easily create and manage job listings on our platform, reaching a wider audience of potential candidates quickly and effectively.
🌟 Applicant Tracking System: Our integrated applicant tracking system allows you to streamline your recruitment workflow, making it easier to review applications, schedule interviews, and manage the hiring process.
🚀 Employer Branding: Showcase your company's unique culture, values, and opportunities to attract top talent. Enhance your employer brand through our platform to stand out from the competition.
Join the HTE Job Board today and experience the difference in your job search or recruitment process. Visit our website and sign up for our newsletters to stay updated with the latest job opportunities and recruitment trends. Don't miss out on your chance to find the perfect match!
Remember, success starts with the right connection. Join the HTE Job Board and let us help you make that connection effortlessly. Visit HTE Job Board now to get started!
Top Reads Of The Week
IN NEED OF A JOB? WE'VE GOT PLENTY AWAITING YOU!
Ecommerce Manager - Tata Consumer Products
Ecommerce Specialist - EHubAmerica
E-Commerce Key Account Manager - Schneider Electric
E-commerce Specialist - Adecco Staffing
E-Commerce Coordinator - Helen of Troy
CHOOSE SUCCESS below and have a great weekend! Get that DTC business runnin’.
