Google is bringing its AI-powered virtual try-on feature to footwear, allowing users to see how shoes—from sneakers to heels—look on them directly within Google Search. Previously limited to clothing, this tool now provides an immersive shopping experience for footwear enthusiasts. The initial rollout starts in the US and will expand to Australia, Canada, and Japan in the coming weeks.
The Try-On feature leverages advanced AI perception models to realistically map clothing or shoes onto a user’s full-length photo. By understanding body shapes, lighting, and depth, the system maintains subtle details like texture, folds, and proportions, creating a near-realistic virtual preview.
Originally demonstrated at Google I/O, this tool reflects the company’s broader focus on AI-powered shopping experiences. Users can now preview both clothing and footwear in their personal style before making a purchase decision.
To try shoes virtually, users follow a simple process:
Tap on a product listing in Google Search
Select the “Try it on” button
Upload a full-length photo for accurate placement of the shoes
Once the photo is uploaded, the AI transforms it to show multiple shoe options. For example, white sneakers in a user’s photo can be virtually swapped for black open-toe heels or other shoe styles. This allows shoppers to compare different shoes visually, helping them make informed decisions.
The AI-powered system ensures a realistic preview of footwear on users by:
Preserving shoe proportions and angles
Maintaining texture and lighting consistency
Offering multiple footwear options for comparison
Users can then save their look, share it with friends, or explore similar styles. This adds a social and interactive element to online shopping.
To use the feature, users need to join the Search Labs program and enable the “Try It On” experiment. Steps include:
Opt in: Go to Search Labs and enable the feature
Browse: While searching for footwear or clothing, tap the Try It On icon
Upload: Add a well-lit, full-length photo for best results
Share or shop: Save, share, or explore alternative styles
Google’s virtual try-on experiments have been evolving for years. Earlier projects like Doppl, launched under Google Labs, allowed users to create AI-generated avatars to try on outfits. The current expansion to footwear builds on these experiments, merging technology and shopping convenience in a user-friendly way.
By integrating shoes into its virtual try-on tool, Google is addressing a key challenge in e-commerce: helping users visualize products on themselves before purchasing, reducing returns and enhancing online shopping confidence.
The new feature offers several advantages:
Try multiple shoe styles virtually without leaving home
Compare looks easily before buying
Reduce purchase uncertainty with realistic previews
Share virtual looks with friends for feedback
Seamless integration within Google Search, no third-party apps needed
This technology reflects Google’s commitment to AI-enhanced, interactive shopping that bridges the gap between in-store and online experiences.
As the rollout continues globally, users in Australia, Canada, and Japan can expect access in the coming weeks. Google may also expand this tool to other product categories in the future, including accessories, handbags, and sports gear, making Search a central hub for virtual try-on experiences.
With AI-driven innovations like Try It On, Google is positioning itself at the forefront of augmented reality shopping, enabling users to make smarter, visually informed purchase decisions.
Google’s AI-powered Try-It-On feature now extends to footwear, offering users a near-realistic virtual experience for sneakers, heels, and boots. By using full-length photos and advanced AI, shoppers can preview, compare, and share looks, all within Google Search. This expansion enhances online shopping confidence and sets a new standard for interactive, AI-driven retail experiences.