Microsoft Launches AI-Powered Shopping Tools
Microsoft has announced the launch of new AI-powered shopping tools designed to make the process more efficient and boost user confidence when shopping online. Microsoft has launched the new tools in the US, with the promise of a worldwide rollout in the near future.
Microsoft claims the new tools will harness “the power of AI to make it easier to discover, research, and complete your purchase, all in one place with information you need from expert sources.”
Users can input keywords into the search engine (such as “college supplies”) and the AI powered system will create a specific Buying Guide listing the products needed, as well as product recommendations and comparisons of similar items. Users can also access the Buying Guide through the Edge sidebar and Bing chat.
The shopping assistant will identify features to consider when trying to decide between brands or versions. For example, when searching for headphones, the assistant will suggest options such as “sound quality, fit, and device compatibility” as aspects to consider when making a choice.
The AI shopping tools will also analyze and provide a summary of all the reviews available for a product so users can quickly evaluate its main critiques. The Review Summaries will be rolling out worldwide over the summer.
Finally, the Price Match feature, which will be available soon, will help users feel confident that they have bought the product at the best price. Microsoft has partnered with a number of US retailers that have price matching policies and will track prices even after purchase and help users request a match if the price decreases.
Price History, Price Comparison, Coupons, Cashback, and Package Tracking are already available in Edge. These tools will allow users to track price over time and from different retailers, apply coupons and cashback refunds automatically, and track purchases so that users can easily find their past purchases from the Edge sidebar.
