Today seem to be day of acquisition ,
just few hours back we witnessed Facebook and WhatsApp deal which is
trending all over social media platforms.
Most of you must be unaware of PhiSix,a computer graphics company that creates 3D models of
clothing from photos, pattern files and other sources and also simulates the
behaviour of the garments. PhiSix’s technology has exciting possibilities – both
online and offline – as it allows consumers to see how clothes fit, look and
move in different environments without actually having to try them on.
Financial terms were not disclosed.
“PhiSix’s technology enables consumers to understand the fit
and movement of clothes in an online shopping environment,” said Steve
Yankovich, vice president of Innovation and New Ventures of eBay Inc.
“Consumers can experience the merchandise in a more efficient and impactful way,
which we believe will drive sales for retailers and create a delightful
experience for shoppers.”
PhiSix’s innovative technology can help solve one of the
common problems online shoppers face – fit and look. With a virtual fitting
room enabled by PhiSix technology, shoppers can determine fit with physically
accurate simulations of the garments. The technology is able to recommend a
size for the user’s body based on basic measurement inputs. All of this points
to an immersive shopping experience that enables consumers to try on clothes
virtually before buying online, which the company believes will reduce returns
and enhance the overall shopping experience. PhiSix technology may be utilized
for omni-channel commerce so users can shop anytime, anywhere, from any device.
The technology could also be integrated across the entire
eBay Inc. portfolio to enable a more immersive and compelling user experience
so consumers can make informed choices whether at home or in a store.
The in-store experience is equally compelling. These 3D
models allow shoppers to use a virtual fitting room to view the clothes in
various scenarios – such as walking down the street or hitting a golf club,
rather than using a dressing room. eBay Inc. believes it can integrate the
PhiSix technology to power various online and physical store shopping
experiences.
PhiSix was founded in 2012 by Jonathan Su, a former Intel
research scientist who received his PhD in computer science from Stanford
University. Su, founder and CEO, has a background in special effects, and has
contributed towards the simulation technologies being used today by major
Hollywood companies like ILM and DreamWorks to create scenes with life-like
behaviour and movement. Su and his team of three, including two world-class computer
science engineers, will all be joining eBay Inc.’s Innovation and New Ventures
team as part of the acquisition and continue working on ways to transform
retail.
“This is an exciting opportunity for us to bring PhiSix’s
expertise to one of the world’s leading commerce platforms,” said Su. “We
believe today’s acquisition will help us better scale our expertise and meet
the needs of digitally-minded shoppers and create new customer experiences for
the eBay Inc. portfolio.”