You can now use AI in Google to help with your holiday shopping. Here’s how

Key Points

1. Introduction of Generative AI in Google Shopping:
   • Google has introduced generative artificial intelligence (AI) tools in Google Shopping for the first time, just in time for the holiday season.
   • The generative AI aims to enhance the shopping experience by providing personalized assistance based on user input, helping users find the perfect gifts for various interests and preferences.
   • This move is strategic, anticipating increased online shopping during the holiday season, with the National Retail Federation projecting record-high holiday spending ranging from $957.3 billion to $966.6 billion.
2. Three New Features in Google Shopping:
   • Personalized Gift Recommendations:
     • Users can input phrases like “great gifts for home cooks” into the search bar, and Google returns a list of gift ideas, including item descriptions and non-physical options like cooking classes.
     • The tool is part of Google’s search generative experience, providing personalized suggestions based on user interests.
     • Users can get specific recommendations by inputting details like “gifts for a 7-year-old who wants to be an inventor,” with specific product suggestions, such as a $25 Inventor’s Box set from Target.
   • Generative Image Search:
     • Users can describe a desired item, and Google’s AI generates photorealistic images based on the description.
     • After selecting an image, actual products similar to the generated image are displayed, streamlining the search process.
     • This tool is designed for users searching for items for themselves when they may not have a clear idea and is set to launch in the U.S. in December.
   • Virtual Clothing Try-On Experience:
     • Google Shopping now offers a virtual try-on experience for clothing items.
     • Users searching for specific clothing, like a “brown jacket at J-Crew,” can view photos of 40 different men and women of various shapes, sizes, and backgrounds wearing the item.
     • This feature expands on an existing tool for women’s tops and provides a more comprehensive virtual try-on experience.
3. Opting into New Options and Search Generative Experiences:
   • Users can opt into these new features by going into Search Labs and turning on Search Generative Experiences (SGE).
   • The introduction of these AI-driven tools aligns with Google’s goal of making shopping more accessible, personalized, and visually engaging, catering to users’ preferences and needs during the holiday season and beyond.