Based on the ModiFace facial recognition technology that powers its initial ‘Make Up’ app launched last year, ‘MakeUp Live’ works as a virtual makeup mirror by using the Apple iPhone camera to apply cosmetics in real time directly onto the user’s own face.
The application also gives step by step instructions on how to achieve one of eight beauty looks, down to the brush type and shade brand and name.
“Our goal is to consistently push the boundary of what is possible when you apply state-of-the-art computer vision technology to beauty and fashion applications. MakeUp live is a perfect example of advanced technology applied to make a virtual mirror possible right on your iPhone,” said Dr. Parham Aarabi, president and founder of ModiFace.
AR enhances real images
Augmented Reality describes the enhancement of real world images by adding three dimensional computer graphics.
“Many magazines offer ‘how to’ guides from beauty experts around the globe, and many virtual makeover tools allow women to see different products on their own photo. However, MakeUp Live takes the beauty guide and makeover tools to an entirely different level by enabling women to work alongside the tool to get it exactly right,” said Nikkie Gatto, mobile project manager at ModiFace.
The original application was launched in November of 2009, and is a free beauty tool that allows users to virtually try on different types of makeup, including mascara, foundation, blush and eye shadow, in hundreds of shades from a number of brands like Revlon, Cover Girl, Lancôme and Clinique.
Social media connection
On the newest version of MakeUp, users can now use their own Facebook, iPhone album, or iPhone camera photo to test out the most popular cosmetic looks on themselves.
“MakeUp Live is the next best thing to having your own personal makeup artist in the room with you,” Gatto added.
This is the latest move to exploit the growing market for ‘virtual makeover’ applications.
US firm EZFace launched its ‘virtual mirror’ last year which allowed consumers to try color cosmetics before buying in the shop. Sega and Shiseido have also collaborated on ‘Project Beauty’, a virtual make-up artist developed for Nintendo DS.
The concept of ‘virtual beauty’ is said to have powerful potential as a marketing tool since it allows consumers to experiment with a wide range of beauty products before buying.