Consumer confidence dipped in September, reaching a five-month low due to job market concerns, as reported by The Conference Board. In response, retailers and online platforms are vying for shopper attention. OpenAI is launching its Instant Checkout feature for Etsy and Shopify merchants, including brands like Skims and Glossier, allowing ChatGPT users to purchase items without leaving the chat interface. This marks a significant step towards “agentic” commerce, where AI assists in shopping, although human users remain in control.
Senior ecommerce expert Greg Zakowicz highlights that nearly 60% of consumers now prefer using chatbots like ChatGPT for product searches over traditional search engines. This trend reflects growing trust in chatbot recommendations. However, analysts point out challenges for tech companies attempting to monopolize online commerce, as retailers are reluctant to relinquish customer data. OpenAI plans to monetize through ads while ensuring that Instant Checkout products do not receive preferential visibility in search results.
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