By
Godfrey Benjamin
April 26th, 2024
The launch of the upcoming AI tools comes shortly after the company’s first interaction with generative AI. In August, Walmart introduced an AI tool tailored to serve the needs of up to 50,000 corporate employees.
Walmart, one of the leading global retail giants in the United States, is taking a significant step towards enhancing the shopping experience for its customers through the integration of innovative generative artificial intelligence (AI) features. The company announced Wednesday that it is bringing new AI features to assist customers in navigating its numerous shopping categories.
The retail giant is extending its embrace of generative AI technology to enrich the shopping experience for its valued customers by introducing three new AI-powered features: a shopping assistant, a generative AI-powered search, and an interior design tool.
Walmart to Enhance Customer Experience with New AI Features
The move aims to provide shoppers with an even more engaging and personalized experience as they navigate the company’s extensive shopping categories.
In the coming weeks, the US-based retail giant will launch a shopping assistant to provide customers with a more engaging and interactive shopping journey.
The company said the AI-powered assistant can respond to specific queries, offer personalized product recommendations, and furnish detailed information about various products.
For instance, if a customer seeks Halloween costume ideas for a horror-themed party or requires guidance on selecting a cell phone for a child, the shopping assistant can promptly assist them with tailored suggestions.
Walmart is also bringing a generative AI search tool for customers. Soon, shoppers can input specific questions directly into the search bar, streamlining the shopping process.
According to the firm, the search tool comprehends contextual nuances and generates a curated list of items related to the query. For example, suppose a customer is planning a unicorn-themed birthday party. In that case, the tool will display a comprehensive selection of related products, such as balloons, paper napkins, and streamers, eliminating the need for multiple separate searches and saving valuable time.
Walmart to Develop AI Tool for Interior Decorations
Walmart’s AI innovation extends beyond the shopping assistant and generative AI search.
The company is actively developing an interior design assistant that merges generative AI with augmented reality (AR) technology.
According to the announcement, customers can upload a photo of a room they wish to redecorate, allowing the AI to capture images of all items within the space. Using this data, customers can seek advice from the chat assistant on redecorating options. The AI will propose item placements within the room, enabling users to express their preferences and budget constraints.
This tool aims to make the interior design process more interactive and personalized for millions of people around the world.
It is important to note that Walmart did not specify which AI models it intends to use to build the three upcoming AI features. However, the company revealed it is using different external models for the development, which could change over time.
Walmart Launches AI App For Corporate Employees
The launch of the upcoming AI tools comes a few months after the company’s first interaction with generative AI.
In August, Walmart introduced an AI tool tailored to serve the needs of up to 50,000 corporate employees. According to the company, the tool is housed under its newly launched Me@Campus super app, allowing employees to navigate all aspects of working at Walmart.
At the time, the company said the move would help streamline tasks such as document summarization, meeting preparation, and project acceleration, receiving positive user feedback.