Panasonic looks to dominate in beauty with new cosmetics printing mirror
The mirror also has the capability to apply facial hair and makeup selections to the image of the user, and then offers tutorial elements to help the user with the application of the beauty products they choose.
The first to print
While other beauty and tech players have been making strides with virtual makeup - through similar smart mirrors, Snapchat ‘lenses’ and mobile apps - Panasonic appears to be the first to combine that tech with a diagnostics and 3D printing function.
Panasonic is reportedly targeting makeup stores and counters with its new mirror technology, so customers will be able to purchase the products it recommends on the spot.
The mirror was launched at the recent Combined Exhibition of Advanced Technologies in Japan, and the company has yet to comment on its price and whether it plans to roll out the Smart Mirror globally.
The company first launched the mirror in January this year, but the latest unveiling is the first with the additional 3D-printing functionality.
L’Oréal losing out?
Before Panasonic’s launch, L’Oréal Paris was the ringleader when it came to virtual makeup, particularly leading the way with its Makeup Genius augmented reality app.
Indeed, as recently as March, the company stated it had entered into a new licence agreement with digital firm Image Metrics in order to build on its capability.
The beauty giant had also been leading the way with introducing virtual makeup to social media campaigns, and was the first beauty brand to launch a ‘lens’ on Snapchat, the millennial consumer group’s favoured social media platform.
Whether the beauty giant can maintain the lead with competition now coming directly from the tech industry itself remains to be seen.
