Williams-Sonoma Acquires AR 3D Imaging Startup Outward for $112 Million
Williams-Sonoma, Inc. (WSI), the large furniture and kitchenware retailer, has purchased the augmented reality startup Outward for $112 million. Outward’s 3D imaging technology will be used to improve customer service and create a more engaging shopping experience. Founded in 2012, Outward specializes in providing three-dimensional visualizations of products, allowing customers to view items from various angles and with different colors and patterns before purchasing. Using augmented reality and virtual reality, the technology enhances the online shopping experience. Williams-Sonoma CEO Laura Alber stated that Outward brings transformative technology to the forefront of their industry. This all-cash deal is expected to close by the end of 2017. Outward will continue to operate as a subsidiary.
