5 Ways Apple Foresaw the Rise of Digital Cosmetics

The global quality assurance industry has undergone a seismic shift in recent years. This isn't solely due to technological advancements or evolving consumer expectations. A subtle yet powerful influence has been the rise of in-game cosmetic items. Odd as it may sound, the story of Apple, the derision directed at "horse armor" in a certain video game, and the subsequent billion-dollar cosmetic industry, offer valuable lessons for QA professionals across all sectors. Consider Apple. Their success hinges on a carefully cultivated brand image, emphasizing design, user experience, and perceived value. This meticulous attention to detail extends to every aspect of their products, from hardware to software. The early days of downloadable content saw a very different approach. Many considered downloadable items to be too superfluous and in some cases pay-to-win. Many still recall the horse armor downloadable content from the elder scrolls oblivion and the initial reaction to such downloads. There was great pushback against the notion of paying real money for a cosmetic that had no bearing on gameplay. Today, the situation is very different. Games like Fortnite, League of Legends, and countless others generate staggering revenues from cosmetic sales. These items offer no competitive advantage. Their sole purpose is aesthetic customization. Players willingly spend real money to express their individuality within the game world. The link to quality assurance lies in the perception of value. Consumers aren't simply buying pixels. They're buying into an experience. The quality of that experience, how polished and bug-free the game is, directly impacts the perceived value of those cosmetic items. A buggy game diminishes the desire to invest in cosmetic enhancements. Conversely, a well-optimized and visually appealing game amplifies the appeal of those items. Here's where the lessons come in for the broader QA world:

QA isn't just about squashing bugs. It's about ensuring a positive and engaging experience for the user. This extends to all aspects of the product, from functionality to aesthetics. The experience that a game provides has a large bearing on the desirability of an item that changes the user's appearance.

What motivates your customers? What are they looking for in your product? Understanding their needs and desires is crucial for delivering a product that resonates with them. Cosmetic items resonate because they allow players to express themselves. What aspects of your product allow users to express themselves?

Small details can make a big difference. The quality of the textures, the animation of the characters, even the way the items are presented in the store – all of these factors contribute to the overall impression. This attention to detail should apply to the development of cosmetics and the game as a whole.

The world is constantly evolving. What works today may not work tomorrow. Be willing to adapt your strategies and embrace new technologies to stay ahead of the curve. Players of all ages and economic standings now have access to devices that are capable of playing games with great graphic detail. Take advantage of this!

Visual appeal matters. A well-designed product is more likely to attract attention and generate positive sentiment. This applies to all industries, not just gaming. The better the game's aesthetics, the more appealing cosmetics will be. The unlikeliest of pairings, Apple and digital cosmetic items, demonstrate a critical lesson for all quality assurance professionals. By focusing on the holistic experience, understanding customer motivations, paying attention to detail, adapting to changing trends, and embracing the power of aesthetics, QA teams can help ensure that their products are not only functional but also desirable and engaging. QA should go beyond the functionality of a product and ensure that the resultant product is fun, engaging and makes people feel like they're getting their money's worth.