Tuesday, November 28, 2023
From the Wire

Walmart experiments with new generative AI tools that can help you plan a party or decorate a space

Get ready to take your party planning skills to the next level with Walmart’s new generative AI tools! In an exciting move, Walmart is experimenting with AI technology to assist shoppers at every stage of their shopping journey, from search to purchase. These new tools include a shopping assistant that can answer specific questions and provide personalized product suggestions, a generative AI-powered search tool that can generate a collection of items relevant to your query, and an interior design feature that uses AR technology to help you decorate your space. With Walmart’s commitment to flexible and evolving AI models, you can trust that you’ll have access to the best tools to make your shopping experience hassle-free. So get ready to discover new products, find party inspiration, and create the perfect space with Walmart’s new generative AI tools!

Walmart experiments with new generative AI tools that can help you plan a party or decorate a space

This image is property of techcrunch.com.

Walmart experiments with new generative AI tools

Walmart is not only one of the biggest retail giants in the world but also a company that is constantly pushing the boundaries of technological innovation. In its latest endeavor, Walmart is experimenting with new generative AI tools to enhance the shopping experience for both its corporate employees and customers.

Launching generative AI tool for corporate employees

In August, Walmart launched a generative AI tool exclusively for its corporate employees. The tool, called “My Assistant,” aims to streamline tasks and improve efficiency in the workplace. From summarizing documents to helping prep for meetings, this AI-powered assistant has proven to be a valuable asset for Walmart’s employees. However, it’s not just for work-related tasks – some employees have even found creative and unexpected use cases, like drafting funny out-of-office messages.

Bringing the technology to customers

Following the success and positive feedback received from its corporate employees, Walmart is now bringing the power of generative AI to its customers. The goal is to enhance the shopping experience in all stages, from the initial search and discovery phase to making a purchase. By harnessing the capabilities of AI, Walmart aims to provide customers with personalized, interactive, and efficient assistance throughout their shopping journey.

Features coming down the pipeline

Walmart is developing several exciting features that will be rolled out to customers in the coming weeks. These features are designed to offer more interactive and personalized experiences, revolutionizing the way customers shop. Let’s take a closer look at what Walmart has in store.

Shopping Assistant

The new shopping assistant is set to launch soon, offering customers an interactive and conversational experience like never before. This AI-powered assistant will be able to answer specific questions, provide personalized product suggestions, and share detailed information about a particular product. Whether you need Halloween costume ideas for a horror-themed party or guidance on choosing the perfect cell phone for your child, the shopping assistant will be your go-to resource.

Walmart experiments with new generative AI tools that can help you plan a party or decorate a space

This image is property of techcrunch.com.

Generative AI-powered Search

Searching for products is about to become a whole lot easier and faster. Walmart’s new generative AI-powered search tool will understand the context of your query and generate relevant product suggestions accordingly. Instead of typing multiple separate searches, customers can now enter specific questions directly in the search bar. For instance, if you’re planning a unicorn-themed birthday party, the AI will display a wide array of related products, such as balloons, paper napkins, and streamers. This innovative search tool is designed to save customers valuable time.

But Walmart is not the only company embracing this technology. Companies like Instacart have also introduced their own AI-powered search tools. Instacart’s ChatGPT-powered search tool, for example, can generate suggestions for high-protein foods or provide ideas for Thanksgiving dinner. Meta, on the other hand, recently announced a Bing-backed AI Assistant and an AI personality chatbot, showcasing the growing trend of incorporating generative AI into various industries.

Interior Design Assistant

In addition to enhancing the shopping experience, Walmart is also utilizing generative AI and AR (Augmented Reality) technology to assist customers in interior design. With the new interior design assistant, customers can now upload a photo of a room and receive personalized advice on redecoration. The AI will capture every item in the space and suggest placement of new items accordingly. Customers can express their preferences and budget constraints, allowing the AI to find affordable and suitable items. This innovative feature aims to help customers create their dream spaces while considering their individual tastes and financial limitations.

Walmart experiments with new generative AI tools that can help you plan a party or decorate a space

This image is property of techcrunch.com.

Continued investment in generative AI tools

Walmart’s commitment to generative AI tools is evident in its continuous investment in research and development. The retail giant understands the immense potential of AI in enhancing customer experiences, optimizing efficiency, and staying ahead of the competition. According to a Walmart spokesperson, generative AI technology is a top priority for the company, and they are dedicated to integrating it into various products and services.

Rolling out AI app

To begin its journey into the world of generative AI, Walmart first launched “My Assistant,” its AI app, exclusively for its corporate employees. The app was introduced to 50,000 employees in the U.S., aiming to streamline their daily tasks and improve overall productivity. Employees have responded with great feedback, embracing the assistant for its multitude of functionalities. The unexpected use cases, like drafting funny out-of-office messages, showcase the versatility and adaptability of the AI app. Walmart’s success with “My Assistant” demonstrates the company’s strong foundation in AI technology and its commitment to innovation.

Walmart’s experiments with new generative AI tools mark a significant milestone in the retail industry. By integrating advanced technologies into its operations and customer-facing platforms, Walmart is revolutionizing the way we shop and interact with brands. With the upcoming launch of the shopping assistant, generative AI-powered search, and the interior design assistant, customers can expect a more personalized, efficient, and enjoyable shopping experience with Walmart. As the company continues to invest in generative AI, we can anticipate even more exciting advancements and features in the future. The possibilities are endless, and Walmart is at the forefront of this transformative wave.

Walmart experiments with new generative AI tools that can help you plan a party or decorate a space

This image is property of images.pexels.com.

Source: https://techcrunch.com/2023/10/04/walmart-experiments-with-new-generative-ai-tools-that-can-help-you-plan-a-party-or-decorate-a-space/