The Oculus Quest just dropped last month. It’s the first six-degrees-of-freedom (no longer just up-down-left-right movement, but real, lean in close, duck and jump movement) standalone VR headset. And it’s awesome.

Don’t listen to the faux-early adopter naysayers like Paul Tassi who stupidly didn’t buy Touch controllers for their original Rift headsets (idiot). This platform will grow massively over the next year as the holiday season approaches and Quests appear under the tree.

Ok, Ben. So what? What does VR have to do with us marketers?

Glad you asked. So much! But it might be a little ways away. But once it the revolution does come, it will revamp your marketing tactics.

1. Hold Something Before Buying on eCommerce

A friend of mine in the VR space in Japan was telling me that over in Asia, Amazon is trying out a new VR service. They create high-res VR models of real-world products so that users can pick them up and “handle” them before purchase.

This may not seem like much with current-gen VR, but once we get really good at VR or AR (augmented reality/pass through), you’ll be able to do really cool things. Maybe you’ll be able to try a new set of tables and chairs in your dining room? Maybe you’ll be able to try on clothes and see yourself in them by looking your actual mirror at home.

With VR and AR tech, the world of ecommerce marketing will change completely. And the possibilities will be endless.

2. A VR Marketing Funnel

Yeah, sure, we could probably design a literal funnel and create an experience where people slide down it to find a prize which requires your information to keep. Actually, that would be hilarious. Time to call up the creators of Accounting+.

I digress.

Eventually, we’ll be doing a lot of our web surfing with VR/AR tech, especially as Neuralink comes online along with Starlink in tow (I don’t think it’s a coincidence they’re named similarly). You’ll be able to create inventive experiences for your customers. These experiences will educate or satisfy and they’ll be more likely to “click” or whatever we end up doing to interact with tech in the future.

3. Non-Profit Marketing

If you’re tired of ASPCA commercials on the television, just wait till they come to a headset near your eyes. You’ll be able to peruse the puppies and feel compelled to donate on the spot.

This is the power of presence. And VR is wonderful at creating a sense of presence whether that be through 360-degree video or simulations. If non-profits could make you feel like you’re in a disaster and help you empathize with those affected, you might be more likely to donate.

The Future is Bright

If you want to stay ahead of the game, start getting into VR and VR/AR development. While VR might not be for everyone just yet, it soon will be. And you’ll be able to ride the wave and trump your competitors in the marketing game.