Amazon announced it will display AI-generated images of products in its shopping app based on users’ search queries. This feature aims to assist customers who have an idea but lack precise terminology to find products, such as “cowl neck” for shirts or “rattan” for furniture.
When a user inputs a search query, the app will present a selection of AI-generated product images below autocomplete suggestions. For example, entering “blue gingham dress” may show options with varying sleeve lengths and styles, directing users towards more relevant search results.
The introduction of AI-generated images has faced criticism. Critics argue it could mislead customers into thinking they are viewing actual products that may not be available. Questions have emerged regarding the rationale for creating fictional product images when real product photographs exist.
This initiative is part of Amazon’s broader efforts to integrate AI technology into its retail platform. Previously, the company utilized AI to summarize customer reviews, highlighting key pros and cons of products. Additionally, Amazon rolled out an audio summary feature in which AI describes product highlights in a podcast format.
Recent AI features also include “shoppable collages” directing users to curated content related to specific fashion styles, Amazon Lens Live for visual matching via camera, and a Lock Screen visual search widget for iOS. Earlier this month, Amazon replaced its Rufus AI chatbot with Alexa for Shopping to enhance user interaction through natural language queries.
