AI’s Rise in Shopping, But Search Still Reigns
▼ Summary
– AI is now the second most influential shopping source, only behind search engines, surpassing retailer websites and personal recommendations.
– 46% of “AI Shoppers” use AI frequently when shopping, and 80% expect to rely on it more in the future.
– Over 70% of shoppers report that AI often anticipates their needs, and 85% feel its recommendations are personalized.
– AI is most effective during the research and comparison stages of shopping, with over 80% of shoppers finding it useful for these tasks.
– Nearly 90% of shoppers say AI helps them discover new products they wouldn’t have found otherwise, with 64% discovering new items during a session.
A recent analysis reveals that artificial intelligence has become the second most powerful influence on consumer purchasing decisions, trailing only behind traditional search engines. This shift underscores a major change in how people approach shopping, with AI tools now surpassing retailer websites, mobile applications, and even personal recommendations from friends and family in shaping buyer behavior.
The study highlights that nearly half of consumers who use AI for shopping rely on it frequently, with 46% turning to these tools during most or all of their shopping excursions. Looking ahead, an overwhelming 80% of these shoppers anticipate increasing their dependence on AI assistance in the coming months. This growing trust stems from AI’s ability to deliver highly relevant and timely suggestions, more than 70% of users report that AI often anticipates their needs before they even articulate them.
Personalization stands out as a key strength of AI shopping tools, with 85% of respondents agreeing that recommendations feel tailored specifically to their preferences. Beyond mere utility, these intelligent systems enhance the overall shopping experience, as 83% of users find that AI makes the process more enjoyable and engaging.
AI proves most valuable during the initial and middle stages of the consumer journey, where shoppers conduct research and compare different options. Over 80% of participants identified AI as particularly effective for these tasks, noting that it provides much-needed clarity when evaluating products. The technology also serves as a powerful discovery engine, introducing shoppers to items they might otherwise have missed. Nearly 90% reported that AI helps them find products they wouldn’t have discovered on their own, while 64% experienced AI surfacing new product recommendations during the same shopping session.
(Source: MarTech)
