What: Adobe's research reveals significant consumer interest in using generative AI for an improved and more affordable online shopping experience.

Why it is important: This consumer interest in AI for shopping indicates a shift towards technology-driven retail experiences, presenting both a challenge and an opportunity for brands to meet these new expectations with AI-powered tools for personalization, efficiency, and cost reduction.

Adobe's study on generative AI's impact on consumer behavior underscores a growing public demand for AI-enhanced shopping experiences. The research, which surveyed over 3,000 U.S. consumers, found that 58% recognize generative AI's positive effect on shopping, with 52% likely to use such tools for purchasing clothes. The familiarity with AI among consumers is driving a higher expectation for AI features in online retail, emphasizing the need for brands to adopt AI in customer service, product discovery, and personalized shopping experiences. This trend is mirrored by Adobe Analytics data, showing a 304% year-over-year increase in online traffic from generative AI tools to retail sites. The report suggests that while consumers are eager for AI-driven improvements, nearly half feel that retail's current use of AI falls short, highlighting a gap that retailers need to bridge to satisfy this demand.

Adobe GenAI report: Americans hunger for AI shopping features