Lowe's Launces Augmented Video Chat Service to Help Pros Manage Jobs

In an effort to help keep Pros working, Lowe's has launched Lowe's for Pros JobSIGHT powered by Streem, an augmented video chat service that allows Pros to conduct virtual home visits with customers. The move is the first step in the home improvement retailer’s previously announced $25 million commitment to support small businesses.

With more people staying at home, the need to keep homes running safely has never been more important. This new offering allows Pros the ability to interact with homeowners and clients without entering their homes, which expands their job opportunities.

The service combines video, computer vision and augmented reality capabilities (AR) to help Pros evaluate repair and maintenance projects. During virtual consultations, the technology provides Pros the ability to video chat with customers, troubleshoot, quickly detect serial numbers and product details, and review a one-page summary to address follow-up needs – all without being in the customer's home.

Lowe's for Pros JobSIGHT also allows Pros to identify parts to order and troubleshoot issues all from their phone, saving the need for an initial in-home visit. Pros can use the on-screen laser pointer and AR quick-draw tools to guide customers through a virtual consultation, and in some cases, might even help the customer complete a simple repair themselves. After a session, Pros can review a shareable one-page summary, including full video and audio, hi-res photos and notes.

Lowe's for Pros JobSIGHT is designed to be as accessible as possible to Pros and their customers. To that end, the experience works entirely through a mobile web browser – no app download required – and is compatible with most modern iPhones, iPads and Android devices.

"We rely on Pros now more than ever to keep our homes and businesses safely up and running, which is why we are working hard to build new ways to keep Pros working and to be the new home for Pros both now and into the future," said Fred Stokes, senior vice president of Pro Sales and Services for Lowe's. "Today's announcement with Streem is just the first of many ways we will provide Pros new and innovative options to connect with their customers while social distancing. We will continue to invest in expanded Pro product offerings and prioritize services and partnerships to help run and grow their businesses."

The new service further demonstrates Lowe's ongoing commitment to improving and modernizing its technology and offering the latest innovation to consumers, especially in increasingly touchless ways.

"The partnership between Lowe's and Streem addresses the immediate needs of Pros and consumers at a time when safely providing essential home services has become more important than ever," said Rex Tibbens, chief executive officer of Frontdoor, the parent company of Streem. "By leveraging Streem's proprietary technology, Pros can conduct thorough, contactless consultations efficiently, accurately and conveniently."

Lowe's for Pros JobSIGHT is available for free to Lowe's for Pros Loyalty Program members beginning today through Oct 31. Pros can sign up on LowesForPros.com/ProLoyalty. During this time, Pros can also save five percent off every day on eligible purchases plus zero interest for 60 days when using their Lowe's Business Account (LBA) or extended terms when using their Lowe's Accounts Receivable (LAR). This announcement builds on previous efforts to support Pros, including a dedicated Pro shopping hour from 6:00 – 7:00 a.m., curbside loading, delivery to Pro jobsites, and small business grants.