Shopping for real products in the virtual world just became a little easier.
Earlier this week, the popular online retailer Amazon launched “Amazon Anywhere,” a new shopping experience that enables customers to purchase physical products from the Amazon store without having to leave their favorite games and apps. This includes VR experiences as well as augmented reality (AR) mobile apps.
According to an official release, the first product to receive support for Amazon Anywhere is Peridot, a location-based AR game from Pokémon GO creator Niantic that allows you to breed and care for virtual pets powered by artificial intelligence (AI) technology; think of it like a futuristic Tomogotchi, but even cuter.
Players can now browse through a catalog of Peridot-themed merchandise and order physical items for shipping. This includes everything from adorable t-shirts and hoodies to even more adorable throw pillows and phone accessories. After linking your Amazon account to the game, you’ll unlock access to the same information you’d find on the Amazon website, such as Prime eligibility, estimated delivery date, and more.
Amazon is also rolling out support for creators and developers who may be interested in implementing Amazon Anywhere into their existing games and apps. According to Amazon, this will allow companies to more easily sell original brand merchandise by removing key logistical concerns such as shipping and fulfillment.
“We’re creating a new landscape for shoppable entertainment and digital experiences while continuing to meet our customers where they are, with the products they love,” said Steve Downer, vice president of consumer electronics at Amazon, in an official release. “Most shopping in virtual worlds is currently limited to purchases of virtual currency and in-game digital items, with no easy path to purchase physical products. We want to change that.”
“You don’t have to leave your game or app to purchase physical products—simply enjoy your experience of engaging with the fun things you’ll find. Once you’re ready to buy, you can expect the same great selection, low prices, easy checkout, fast delivery, and best-in-class customer support as you would from shopping in Amazon stores.”
You can check out Amazon Anywhere now on the Peridot app, available for free on iOS and Android devices. For more information about Amazon Anywhere visit here.
And be sure to keep a look out for our extended coverage of Peridot coming later this week!
Feature Image Credit: Amazon