The Best WebAR Experiences You Must Try!

Augmented reality (AR) has evolved from a futuristic novelty to a mainstream digital phenomenon. AR captivates audiences by blending the digital and physical worlds, from Snapchat filters and interactive advertisements to immersive product demos. One of the most exciting developments in this space is WebAR—browser-based AR experiences that don’t require dedicated app downloads. Users can interact with 3D models, animations, and creative overlays right in their mobile browser by simply visiting a URL or scanning a QR code.

In this article, we’ll explore how WebAR boosts user engagement, highlight some of the best WebAR experiences (including notable projects from BrandXR), and examine the future of this rapidly growing technology. If you’re a marketer, developer, or enthusiast looking to take advantage of AR’s potential, read on to discover how WebAR can elevate your brand or project to the next level.

1. Why WebAR Is Revolutionizing Augmented Reality

1.1 No App Download Required

Traditionally, AR required users to download a dedicated app, which created friction and limited reach. WebAR solves that by eliminating the need for a standalone app. Adoption rates soar when someone can scan a QR code or click a link in a social media post to view an AR experience in a browser instantly. This immediate accessibility is a game-changer for campaigns that rely on quick hits of user attention.

1.2 Cross-Platform Compatibility

Whether a user is browsing on iOS Safari, Android Chrome, or even desktop browsers, modern WebAR frameworks are designed to work seamlessly across platforms. If you own a phone from 2018 or later, it supports WebAR technologies (like WebXR and WebGL), allowing you to enjoy immersive experiences without the concerns of app store limitations or version discrepancies.

1.3 Lower Barrier to Entry for Creators

Beyond simplifying the user journey, WebAR also empowers small businesses, nonprofits, and indie developers to create compelling content. Instead of spending considerable resources building a standalone application for each major operating system, creators can focus their time and budget on a single web-based project that runs everywhere. This democratization fosters more creativity and innovation in the AR realm.

2. Key Benefits of WebAR

2.1 High Engagement

AR experiences, by nature, are interactive and memorable. Users can explore 3D elements, move them around, and snap photos—actions that inherently boost engagement. Combine that with the “instant on” nature of the web, and you have a recipe for high dwell times and rich user interactions that help brands stand out from the noise.

2.2 Easy Integration Into Campaigns

Marketers can incorporate AR by simply placing a QR code on product packaging, flyers, or large-scale billboards. Clicking a social media link can launch an AR activation that ties into a larger campaign story. This seamless integration—coupled with the excitement factor of augmented reality—can boost user curiosity, social sharing, and, ultimately, conversion rates.

2.3 Reduced Development & Maintenance Costs

Building and maintaining a single web-based AR experience can be significantly more cost-effective than developing native apps for multiple platforms. Updates and improvements can be rolled out immediately—no app store approvals or distribution constraints. This allows for more agile marketing campaigns and a faster go-to-market strategy.

2.4 Broad Accessibility

As technology continues to improve, mid-range and even budget smartphones can handle WebAR experiences. This broad accessibility means a massive potential audience can be reached, from tech-savvy millennials to casual users just discovering AR for the first time.

3. Examples of Top WebAR Experiences

Below are some of the most compelling WebAR projects, illustrating how different industries leverage AR to engage consumers, elevate storytelling, and provide memorable interactive moments.

3.1 BrandXR’s Impactful AR Campaigns

3.1.1 Three Verizon Augmented Reality Murals via Snapchat’s WebAR

BrandXR collaborated with Verizon to create three stunning augmented reality murals that could be accessed via Snapchat’s WebAR platform. The Verizon Storefronts in Midtown Miami, Coconut Grove, and Hialeah had murals painted on them by local artist Project Roadmap Murals and they came to life when scanned with a smartphone. Users saw dynamic visuals representing Verizon’s ultra-fast 5G network and brand messaging in a vivid, memorable way. By partnering with Snapchat’s WebAR, Verizon reduced entry barriers—viewers didn’t need to download another app, just scan and immerse themselves. The result was a series of interactive public art installations that fueled social media buzz and underscored Verizon’s commitment to forward-thinking technology.

3.1.2 Meijer Gardens Butterfly Garden via 8th Wall

In partnership with the Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park, BrandXR launched a WebAR experience powered by 8th Wall that invited visitors to explore a magical butterfly garden virtually. Upon scanning a QR code, users could aim their camera at designated areas in the Meijer Gardens A to see colorful, fluttering butterflies in 3D. These butterflies carried information about the species and their habitats, adding an educational dimension to the immersive fun. This project demonstrated how museums and botanical gardens can enhance visitor engagement and learning through visually captivating AR overlays—all without requiring a dedicated app.

3.1.3 Vodafone Augmented Reality Billboards via 8th Wall

BrandXR also worked with Vodafone to create AR-enhanced billboards that showcased the telecom giant’s services in an attention-grabbing way. By leveraging 8th Wall’s SLAM (Simultaneous Localization and Mapping) technology, passersby could simply point their phone at the billboard to unlock interactive animations highlighting Vodafone’s global connectivity, new offers, and brand identity. The seamless WebAR experience turned an ordinary billboard into a shareable, dynamic piece of digital content, reflecting the growing trend of blending physical advertising spaces with interactive digital storytelling.

3.2 IKEA Place (Browser Version)

IKEA pioneered AR in retail with their original app, but they’ve since explored a WebAR variant to reach a broader audience. Instead of requiring a specialized application, potential customers can visit a link on their mobile device, point their camera at a spot in their home, and see how IKEA furniture would look in real-time. By offering quick, app-free accessibility, the furniture giant has made it easier for consumers to visualize products in their own spaces, leading to more confident purchases.

3.3 Burberry’s Interactive Packaging

Luxury fashion house Burberry added a dash of WebAR flair to its packaging. By scanning a QR code on select Burberry product boxes, customers unlocked 3D animations illustrating the story behind each collection. This fusion of high-end product design with immersive digital content gave Burberry a modern, tech-forward edge, enhancing the unboxing experience and creating a buzzworthy moment for consumers.

3.4 Live Event Filters

Concert promoters, sports teams, and festivals have adopted WebAR filters to engage attendees. By scanning a QR code printed on lanyards or displayed on screens at the event, fans can apply fun, branded AR overlays to capture memorable selfies or videos. These instant experiences heighten the communal atmosphere and empower event-goers to share branded content on social media. The frictionless nature of WebAR ensures users remain immersed without the distraction of app downloads and setup.

3.5 Gamified Promotions

Household brands like Taco Bell and Pepsi have experimented with gamified WebAR experiences that appear once users scan special packaging or logos. These mini-games, such as treasure hunts or puzzle challenges, hold users’ attention longer, keep them returning for additional attempts, and reward winners with coupons or freebies. This AR-based gamification is a powerful loyalty and retention tool, turning casual customers into enthusiastic brand advocates.

3.6 Virtual Try-Ons

One of the most prevalent AR use cases is virtual try-ons. Whether it’s sunglasses, makeup, or jewelry, WebAR can overlay digital assets onto a user’s real-time camera feed. Eliminating the guesswork encourages online purchases and decreases product returns, a win-win scenario for both customers and retailers. With the advancements in facial tracking and 3D modeling, these try-on experiences continue to become more realistic and accurate.

4. Platforms and Tools for Building WebAR

With the success of these experiences, an ecosystem of development platforms and toolkits has emerged to facilitate WebAR creation.

4.1 8th Wall

One of the biggest players in the WebAR space, 8th Wall offers advanced SLAM tracking, image recognition, and robust analytics. It’s been used in high-profile campaigns such as the Meijer Gardens Butterfly Garden and Vodafone’s interactive billboards. Its user-friendly interface, frequent updates, and comprehensive documentation make 8th Wall a go-to solution for brands and agencies looking to deliver premium AR experiences.

4.2 ZapWorks

Zappar’s flagship product, ZapWorks, allows creators to build AR content with a visual interface alongside coding options for more customization. They also offer built-in hosting, analytics, and multiple distribution methods, making end-to-end AR campaign management more streamlined. ZapWorks is particularly appealing for newcomers looking to launch AR campaigns quickly.

4.3 8th Wall + Snapchat’s WebAR Collaboration

Snapchat has long dominated social media-driven AR filters. Now, by integrating with 8th Wall, they’ve opened up new avenues for web-based experiences triggered directly via Snapchat. This synergy has already led to projects like the Verizon murals, enabling brands to leverage Snapchat’s AR user base without losing the convenience of WebAR’s app-free approach.

4.4 Three.js



Although Three.js isn’t a dedicated AR platform, it’s a flexible 3D graphics library for JavaScript that many AR frameworks build upon. Its robust capabilities for rendering 3D scenes, particle systems, and dynamic lighting make it an essential tool for developers looking to push the visual boundaries of WebAR.

4.5 Custom Frameworks

Some companies and agencies develop proprietary frameworks, like advanced machine learning image recognition or specialized rendering, to meet specific requirements. While these custom approaches can deliver unique results, they require significant resources and expertise. Nevertheless, they demonstrate the adaptability of WebAR technologies to a broad range of creative use cases.

5. Best Practices for Implementing WebAR

Having an eye-catching concept is only half the battle; ensuring a smooth and enjoyable user experience is equally critical.

5.1 Optimize for Performance

AR experiences can be resource-intensive, involving real-time camera data, 3D asset rendering, and possibly audio playback. Compress 3D models without sacrificing visual fidelity, use efficient loading strategies, and test across different devices. Fast load times reduce bounce rates and keep users engaged.

5.2 Streamlined User Interface

A minimal learning curve is essential. Keep buttons and instructions clear, with helpful visual cues that guide interaction. Overly complicated menus or unclear prompts can frustrate users, diminishing the overall impact of your AR campaign.

5.3 Ensure Cross-Browser Testing

Different browsers may implement AR capabilities slightly differently. Thoroughly test your WebAR experience on Safari, Chrome, Firefox, and Edge, across both iOS and Android, to ensure uniform performance. Regular updates to operating systems can also impact AR functionality, so revisit testing whenever new OS versions launch.

5.4 Handle Network Constraints

Real-world users might access your WebAR project on cellular data or in areas with poor reception. Implement fallback or “lite” modes that reduce graphical complexity under these conditions, and use progressive loading so essential content appears quickly while less critical assets load in the background.

5.5 Respect User Privacy

Obtaining permission to use a device’s camera and potentially location data is standard for AR. Be transparent about how this data is stored (if at all), and follow best practices for GDPR, CCPA, or other local data protection laws. Building trust is paramount for the success of any AR campaign.

6. The Future of WebAR

As more brands embrace WebAR, the industry’s technological foundation matures, revealing new opportunities and possibilities.

6.1 Expanding WebXR Standards

The WebXR Device API lays down a standardized framework for immersive experiences on the web, encompassing both AR and VR. As browsers refine their WebXR support, we can expect more stable, high-fidelity experiences that require fewer workaround solutions. This opens the door for widespread innovation and consistent user experiences across devices.

6.2 5G and Edge Computing

Faster mobile data networks and edge computing can reduce latency and power more graphically intense AR scenarios. This improved infrastructure leads to smoother interactions, real-time multiplayer experiences, and potentially photorealistic graphics delivered straight to a mobile browser.

6.3 Persistent AR Environments

Another emerging concept is the AR cloud, which enables persistent, shared digital overlays anchored to physical locations. Soon, you might be able to leave a virtual “marker” in a public space that others can interact with weeks later—an evolution that could unlock multi-user gaming, long-term community art projects, and more. Integrating this concept with WebAR further extends audience reach, as you won’t need a special app to experience these persistent worlds.

6.4 More Creative Storytelling

As frameworks mature and developers become more comfortable with AR, expect an explosion in immersive storytelling. Museums, for example, may layer entire exhibits with interactive guides, turning a static sign into a living, breathing narrative. Retailers could gamify store aisles, while social causes might use WebAR to illustrate pressing global issues through emotional 3D visualizations. The web is a blank canvas—AR is the next layer that enriches it.

7. Conclusion

WebAR experiences are rapidly transforming how brands, creators, and organizations connect with audiences. From BrandXR’s innovative projects—like the Verizon murals via Snapchat’s WebAR, the Meijer Gardens Butterfly Garden with 8th Wall, and Vodafone’s AR billboards—to tried-and-true retail apps like IKEA’s browser-based product demos, we’re witnessing the dawn of a new era where immersive experiences are accessible in a single tap.

The benefits of WebAR are clear: immediate accessibility, wide compatibility, robust engagement, and cost-effective development. These advantages have already drawn leading brands, cultural institutions, and nonprofits alike to launch AR campaigns that drive awareness, sales, and user delight. Platforms like 8th Wall, ZapWorks, and Three.js continue to evolve, making it easier than ever to craft memorable AR moments. Meanwhile, best practices such as optimizing for performance, designing intuitive interfaces, and respecting privacy ensure that users come away with a smooth, trustworthy experience.

Improvements in WebXR standards, the spread of 5G, and the potential for persistent AR environments promise even richer, more dynamic WebAR interactions. As these emerging technologies become mainstream, the distinction between our physical and digital lives will continue to blur—bringing storytelling, education, retail, and entertainment into a new dimension.

For anyone contemplating a dip into the world of AR, now is the time to invest in WebAR. With lower barriers to entry, easy integration into marketing campaigns, and endless creative potential, WebAR is poised to redefine how we engage with digital content. Embracing this innovative medium will place you at the forefront of a revolution that’s reshaping our daily experiences, one browser session at a time.