Mark Cuban Backs 3D E-commerce Startup Vntana
The Transition from 2D to 3D Web Content
While companies like Facebook and Apple are aggressively developing 3D and mixed reality technologies, the majority of web content remains in a traditional 2D format.
The idea of a separate “metaverse” for 3D experiences is being explored, but it may prove challenging to convince established web platforms to invest heavily in this area.
These platforms are more likely to focus resources on enhancing the existing web experience where their user base currently resides.
VNTANA: Bridging the Gap for E-commerce
VNTANA provides a content management system designed to help e-commerce businesses showcase their products in immersive 3D.
The system also enables customers to visualize products in augmented reality and virtually “try on” items before purchasing.
Founded in 2012, the company initially focused on holographic displays for live events, but has since pivoted to delivering 3D content directly to online storefronts.
“Our core mission has always been to create engaging and interactive product experiences for consumers,” explains CEO Ashley Crowder.
Recent Funding and Investors
VNTANA has successfully secured $10.5 million in Series A funding through multiple rounds.
Notable investors include Mark Cuban, Brendan Iribe (former Oculus CEO), Flexport, and Anorak Ventures.
This brings the company’s total funding to $12.5 million.
Software Capabilities and Partnerships
The company’s software suite is designed to optimize large 3D files for faster loading speeds.
This allows consumers to view products from all angles without significant delays.
Furthermore, the platform enables e-commerce businesses to utilize existing 3D files to generate 2D marketing materials, such as showroom images and videos, reducing both time and costs.
Recent partnerships with wholesale management platform Joor and software developer PTC are expanding VNTANA’s reach within the industry.
Augmented Reality and Reduced Returns
Customers can utilize VNTANA’s software to accurately assess an object’s size and appearance within their own physical environment using augmented reality.
This capability can contribute to a decrease in product returns, as customers have a clearer understanding of the item before completing their purchase, according to Crowder.
The AR/VR Landscape and VNTANA’s Strategy
Despite significant announcements from major tech companies like Apple, Google, and Facebook, the development opportunities within augmented reality haven’t fully materialized as many anticipated.
While widespread adoption of 3D content on websites has been slow, VNTANA has successfully identified opportunities to deliver solutions that address existing challenges for e-commerce retailers.
This positions them to capitalize on the future of AR and VR technologies as they become more prevalent.
