Snap Inc., the parent company of Snapchat, has launched its first physical Augmented Reality (AR) shopping experience in Downtown Los Angeles, transforming retail into an interactive, tech-driven adventure. The new AR Shopping Hub, opened to the public this week, allows visitors to try on clothing, accessories, and makeup virtually using full-length smart mirrors and Snapchat’s advanced Lens technology.
Located near the company’s headquarters in the Arts District, the space blends immersive tech with high fashion. Users can walk up to digital mirrors, scan a Snapcode with their phone, and instantly see how different items look on them—without ever stepping into a dressing room. Brands like Nike, Levi’s, and Fenty Beauty are among the first to partner in this initiative, offering exclusive virtual try-ons and special discounts for purchases made through the Snapchat app.
What sets this apart from previous AR efforts is the physical presence of the store, designed more like a futuristic showroom than a traditional retail outlet. Snap’s engineers have reportedly embedded gesture control and spatial tracking that allow for an intuitive and seamless experience, even for users unfamiliar with AR.
The move underscores Snapchat’s push to monetize its popular Lens features and get ahead in the growing AR commerce space. By using LA as its test market, Snap is betting on the city’s tech-savvy, fashion-forward audience to help shape the future of retail.
Local reaction has been enthusiastic, with long lines forming outside the hub since its launch. If successful, Snap plans to roll out similar experiences in New York, London, and Tokyo in the coming year.