Walmart debuts generative AI search and AI replenishment features at CES

In a recent keynote address at the Consumer Electronics Show, Walmart’s president and CEO, Doug McMillon, along with other executives, unveiled the company’s innovative utilization of new technologies such as augmented reality, drones, and artificial intelligence to enhance the customer shopping experience. Walmart introduced several new products, such as AI-powered tools for product search and replenishment, and a beta AR social commerce platform called “Shop with Friends.” A noteworthy development includes the launch of generative AI search features on iOS, enabling customers to search for products by use case rather than specific product or brand names. Additionally, Walmart showcased AI integration in various aspects of its business, including Sam’s Club and apps for store associates. The company also highlighted its AI shopping assistant and unveiled plans to utilize generative AI for replenishment of frequently ordered items. Additionally, Walmart presented “Shop with Friends,” an AR shopping tool that enables customers to virtually try on outfits and share them with friends for feedback. The suite of developments was termed “adaptive retail” by CEO Doug McMillon, emphasizing personalized and flexible retail experiences rooted in a focus on people. Walmart outlined other ways it is leveraging AI, such as utilizing AI and computer vision-powered technology in Sam’s Club to expedite receipt verification and expanding its generative AI tool for store associates, “My Assistant,” globally. Moreover, Walmart emphasized its commitment to integrating technology to serve people while acknowledging the potential job implications and investing in assisting associates with transitioning roles. The keynote also featured Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella, who discussed the breakthroughs enabled by generative AI and emphasized the importance of mindful technology application. Beyond AI, Walmart is expanding its drone delivery service to encompass a larger population for faster deliveries, powered by companies like Wing and Zipline.