Walmart harnesses GenAI for intuitive search and auto-replenishment, transforming online shopping.
Walmart unveiled its latest foray into AI-enhanced retail at the Consumer Electronics Show, a tech-forward move that marks a significant pivot in the online shopping landscape. Walmart is pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in e-commerce.
Walmart’s new AI-powered search tool for iOS is leading the charge. Shoppers can now search for products based on scenarios, not just product names or brands. Think of prepping for a football party – this tool will suggest a range of relevant items, from snacks to a big-screen TV, streamlining the shopping experience like never before.
But that’s just the start. Walmart is trialing an AI-driven approach to restock customer favorites. The Walmart InHome Replenishment service, still in beta, is a clever twist on online shopping. It predicts and pre-fills your cart with items you often buy, adapting as your preferences change. It’s like having a personal shopper who knows you inside out.
In the backend, Walmart’s GenAI is also empowering its workforce. Their tool, “My Assistant,” now operational in 11 countries, is a digital aide-de-camp for store associates, handling tasks from document summarization to sparking creative solutions. This reflects Walmart’s dual focus on enhancing customer experience and employee efficiency.
Walmart’s CEO, Doug McMillon, underscored the human-first approach in their tech strategy. Coined “adaptive retail,” this philosophy is about creating a seamless blend of online and in-store shopping experiences, where technology is a facilitator, not a focal point.