IKEA lands on Steam – That’s right, IKEA

Today’s launch of the HTC Vive is bringing all kinds of VR apps out the woodwork and retailers are making use of the new technology to help sell products.

IKEA has now launched a Kitchen VR experience on Steam which is the first time the company has used VR. According to IKEA, the “app is intended to solicit consumer feedback as IKEA continues to explore the possible implications of the technology for the home”.

The app allows viewers to explore one of three different kitchens, change the cabinet colours, and even shrink your size to view the kitchen from a child or giant person’s perspective.

It’s an interesting idea and it means that you don’t have to trawl around an IKEA warehouse following silly arrows on the floor to check out these kitchens. Jesper Brodin, IKEA’s managing director had this to say.

“Virtual reality is developing quickly and in five to ten years it will be an integrated part of people’s lives. We see that virtual reality will play a major role in the future of our customers. For instance, someday, it could be used to enable customers to try out a variety of home furnishing solutions before buying them.”

VR is opening up new possibilities for retailers and it won’t be long before more of these “experiences” start appearing on Steam. Sadly this IKEA app doesn’t allow you to shoot up the kitchen.