The ability to experience and enjoy color has taken on a new digital dimension following the latest launch of AkzoNobel‘s innovative Visualizer app.

Designed to make decorating easier and more inspiring, the new version of the multi-award-winning app includes a range of exciting features to help consumers see, share and virtually paint in their chosen colors – before anything is actually applied to the walls.

First launched in 2014 and already downloaded more than ten million times, the Visualizer now includes enhanced video capability and intuitive color picker technology, as well as the ability to share designs on social media.

“Color is the number one decision factor when consumers choose paint,” explained David Menko, Global Marketing Director at AkzoNobel Decorative Paints. “Selecting the right color can be an exciting yet overwhelming challenge. The new features in the Visualizer offer a fun and easy way for people to find the essential color that makes their living spaces more inspiring, while making the whole experience more social at the same time.”

Research shows that 30 percent of consumers struggle to visualize what a color will look like in their homes, and 39 percent discuss color schemes with friends and family before making a purchase. The new features in the Visualizer build on these trends.

“We are constantly looking to understand consumer behavior and any emerging trends, innovations and technologies that will enable us stay one step ahead,” added Ruud Joosten, AkzoNobel’s Executive Committee member responsible for Decorative Paints. “This helps us deliver products and colors that people want. The Visualizer tool gives consumers confidence to try new colors, quickly see the potential end result and share it with friends to get their views.”

Now available for iOS and soon to be released on Android, the new version of the Visualizer will be rolled out in more than 40 markets this year, starting with the Netherlands, Turkey, France, India, Indonesia, Argentina and Russia. In selected markets, it will include additional features to help consumers during their purchasing process, such as the option to buy testers directly through the app.