When someone says shopping, I instantly think about online shopping. As an introvert, I hate going to the mall, walking into every outlet, checking the price tag, and then leaving without buying anything. In fact, my biggest fear is getting judged by the shopkeeper based on my looks, net worth, and other details.
So, online shopping is my escape, where I can easily fill up my cart with as many items as I want and even abandon it if I change my mind.
Now, I know this is the biggest nightmare for most brands, but for a broke adult like me, this is the only form of therapy.
As an avid cart-abandoner, I can tell you that the future of online shopping is more exciting than ever. In fact, I feel like more brands would simply shut down their physical outlets and shift to online retail for good.
Why?
Well, the answer is slightly complicated, but if I have to sum it up, it would definitely come down to tech advancement and AI.
So, if you are a business owner, an online shopper, hang in there. This write-up will cover some of the noteworthy AI advancements within the shopping and e-commerce business below
Top AI Trends in Shopping and E-commerce Business
- Real-Time Customer Support
One thing I really miss about the traditional shopping experience is that I could ask the shopkeeper anything from the size to the color, right there.
However, in the case of online shopping, this was impossible at first, but not anymore.
Customer support is an actual necessity, especially when it comes to simple questions. Now, thanks to AI, there are online chatbots that can help you with your product search. Moreover, these chatbots are fully familiar with the brand and their products, so they can offer you suggestions without any judgment or delay.
Some of these AI chatbots replicate the multilingual customer support offered by most utility-based tech companies. For instance, offers bilingual support to Hispanic customers in the US, making it easy for them to request an internet plan, its upgrade, installation, or any service-related query in their preferred language.
Similarly, you can use AI-based multilingual chatbots that can guide you in your preferred language anytime.
- AI Try-On Haul
If you have lived through the YouTube try-on haul era, you would love this feature.
As an online shopper, most people claim that they do not get what they order. Since this is a common issue and most people have different body types with specific dress requirements, AI has come to solve this issue. Now, with the help of AI, user can simply utilize their webcam or a front camera to try on different dresses, makeup products, hair colors, and other products. This feature seems like a Barbie dress-up game, but it can solve a lot of issues for customers who simply buy clothes and products because they look good on the model.
AI-based try-on screens are also being used and installed by big brands in their outlets. This means that customers no longer have to wait in the queue just to try on clothes. Instead, they can stand in front of an interactive AI-based screen and easily try on different products.
- Customized Pieces
Customization in fast fashion online shopping is a crime. You get what you pay for, and in most cases, you get faulty pieces that you have to return.
However, the dog days of fashion are already behind us, thanks to the AI online shopping experience. Now, you can get fully customized pieces in your preferred color. The best thing about these pieces is that they are tailored-made as per your body type, and they are a sustainable fashion option.
While this promotes sustainable fashion, it is also an excellent way to help brands maintain their supply chain without wasting a lot of products and fashion articles. This creates a win-win situation for both customers and the company.
- Optimal Pricing
Who doesn’t like to get best-looking clothes at dirt-cheap prices?
Well, in online shopping, this was not possible before. However, now all thanks to the AI optimal price option, you can enjoy unlimited shopping within your limited budget.
How is that possible?
Most of the products manufactured by the brands are limited in number. These products regularly go on sale based on their supply and demand. In case the product is not getting sold or if the product has a few pieces left, it generally goes on sale. This way, customers can easily be notified about the product and buy it.
- Shopping Suggestions
Shopping suggestion by a professional? Yes, please.
Now, as an online shopper, I love suggestions like “people also bought” or “this goes well with”.
However, most of these suggestions are general, which means every customer will get the same suggestion. Thanks to AI shopping suggestions, you will be able to offer a little insight about your fashion sense, and it will eventually help with the product choice. The best thing about this process is that you will not be compromising on your fashion and will still get good articles.
As online shopping is becoming the norm, most people complain about the flaws of buying things online. However, the above-mentioned AI updates are helping in resolving that issue completely, so both brand and shopper can enjoy their retail therapy.
