In the hopes of stirring up the online shopping industry and potentially building some corporate report, Apple and Google have joined forces to provide young fashionistas with a new tool: the Google Catalog.
Whereas most shopping directories are aimed at out-of-touch parents who shop on behalf of their children, the Google Catalog connects shoppers with their favorite retailers, including Bergdorf Goodman, Urban Outfitters, L.L. Bean and Macy's. Available exclusively for the iPad, the app allows customers to find nearby stores, purchase pieces online or even share virtual collages. If you're looking for something particular, you can even search by category, catalog or even release date.
Followers of Google will note the bizarre omission of Android support, particularly after Google's recent acquisition of the mobile device platform. Maybe people with style exclusively use iPads -- who knows?
What's Driving This Trend
- Online Shopping Directories
- Disruptive innovation opportunity: Develop a shopping directory aimed at fashion-savvy parents who shop on behalf of their children.
- Mobile Shopping Apps
- Disruptive innovation opportunity: Create a mobile app that allows customers to find nearby stores, purchase items online, and share virtual collages, compatible with both Android and iOS devices.
- Fashion Retailer Collaboration
- Disruptive innovation opportunity: Foster collaboration among fashion retailers to create a comprehensive online catalog that enables customers to search by category, catalog, and release date.
Who This Affects Most
- E-commerce
- Disruptive innovation opportunity: Revolutionize the e-commerce industry by leveraging technology to provide a seamless and personalized shopping experience for customers.
- Mobile Technology
- Disruptive innovation opportunity: Explore the potential of mobile technology to transform the way consumers engage with retailers and make purchases on the go.
- Fashion Retail
- Disruptive innovation opportunity: Embrace innovation in the fashion retail industry by integrating digital platforms and tools to enhance customer engagement and drive sales.
