Ikea Store Operator Buys Startup To Advance Virtual Shopping

Ingka Group, owner and operator of 380 Ikea stores in 30 countries, has acquired Geomagical Labs, a 3D and visual artificial intelligence startup.

The technology of California-based Geomagical Labs will be used to help consumers capture and furnish their homes using photorealistic 3D representation of their furnishings, according to Ingka.

The technology allows the mobile capture of 3D photos of a room and experimentation with home furnishings.

The plan is to integrate the technology into the Ikea app and website, where direct purchases can be made after virtually viewing furniture in place.

“With Geomagical Labs onboard, we can bring our home furnishing expertise to many people in new ways and assist them in their unique design needs,” stated Barbara Martin Coppola, chief digital officer, IKEA Retail, Ingka Group. “In a time when people spend more time at home, we can support our customers with their everyday life through an enhanced digital meeting.”

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