Google unveils Doppl, a new app that lets you try new clothes digitally
In a move that blends cutting-edge technology with fashion innovation, Google has unveiled Doppl, an experimental new app that lets users try on clothes digitally using artificial intelligence. Launched under the Google Labs initiative, Doppl introduces a creative and personalized way for fashion enthusiasts to explore outfits without setting foot in a store.
This development marks Google’s latest stride into the growing domain of AI-enhanced shopping and virtual fashion tools. By transforming a static photo into a digital avatar, Doppl offers users a chance to virtually test how a piece of clothing might look and move on their own body.
What is Doppl?
Doppl is an AI-powered virtual try-on app available for iOS and Android (currently limited to the U.S.). Unlike traditional shopping features where users can see apparel on preset models, Doppl allows you to upload a full-body photo and create a personalized, realistic digital avatar.
From there, the app enables you to upload photos or screenshots of outfits—from a social media post, your camera roll, or even a product spotted in-store. Doppl digitally places the clothing onto your avatar, giving you a dynamic preview of how it might look in real life.
How Does It Work?
The experience begins with you uploading a high-quality, full-body image. Google’s AI then generates an accurate 3D representation of your body. Once your avatar is created, you can:
- Try on outfits from pictures or screenshots.
- Adjust views to see how the outfit fits from different angles.
- Preview motion, as the app creates short animated videos showing how the clothing might move with your body.
- Save or share your virtual looks with friends or on social media.
It’s an intuitive process designed to empower users with more control over their wardrobe decisions. Whether you’re curious about how a bold pattern fits your frame or want to test the vibe of a thrifted outfit, Doppl turns digital exploration into a fun and practical experience.
The Technology Behind Doppl
Doppl builds upon Google’s earlier work in virtual try-on experiences, particularly in its Shopping platform, where users could see clothes on diverse model sizes and body types. However, Doppl takes that idea a step further by centering the user.
At its core, the app leverages AI vision models, 3D rendering, and motion simulation to create realistic digital overlays. Google’s deep experience with computer vision—used in tools like Google Lens and its augmented reality features—plays a key role here.
The AI can intelligently fill in missing outfit details when a photo is incomplete. For instance, if part of a garment is obscured in a reference image, Doppl tries to reconstruct a logical rendering. This approach, while not always perfect, allows the app to “imagine” the complete clothing piece on your avatar.
Why Doppl Matters in the Fashion Industry
The launch of Doppl signals how tech companies are becoming increasingly involved in fashion innovation. Here’s why it stands out:
- Sustainability: Virtual try-ons can reduce the environmental impact of returns and excess production. Users can better evaluate clothing before purchasing.
- Convenience: Trying outfits from home eliminates the hassle of crowded dressing rooms or waiting for delivery.
- Inclusivity: With your own body as the model, shopping becomes more realistic and inclusive of different shapes and sizes.
- Creativity: Users can experiment with styles, colors, and outfit combinations they might otherwise hesitate to try.
For brands and fashion influencers, this tool also opens a new avenue for engagement, enabling users to “try on” influencer-recommended outfits instantly.
Current Limitations
Despite its promise, Doppl is still in an experimental phase. A few limitations include:
- U.S.-only availability (as of now).
- The accuracy of fit and texture can sometimes vary, especially with complex clothing like layered outfits or reflective materials.
- AI might misinterpret clothing if the source image is unclear or too stylized.
Google has acknowledged that Doppl may not always get everything right, especially when images lack full visual data. Still, feedback from users will help improve its accuracy over time.
Looking Ahead: What’s Next for Doppl?
Google hasn’t yet shared global expansion plans for Doppl, but its Labs origin suggests the app is part of a broader test to gauge user interest and refine AI models. As the technology matures, it’s possible that Doppl could be integrated with Google Shopping, or offered as a white-label solution to fashion retailers.
The integration of AI into personal fashion choices is likely to become a staple of the future shopping experience. Doppl may just be the beginning of how we interact with our wardrobe—digitally.
Final Thoughts
In an era where personalization and technology intersect more than ever, Doppl represents an exciting glimpse into the future of fashion. Whether you’re shopping for a new look, seeking style inspiration, or simply having fun experimenting with outfits, Doppl offers a hands-on, digital-first way to reimagine your closet.
As users explore its possibilities, Doppl could reshape not just how we shop, but how we express ourselves through fashion in a more sustainable, inclusive, and imaginative way.
