Outdated AI Shopping Assistants: A Roadblock to Modern Retail

AI Shopping Assistants: The Pitfalls of Using AI for Tech Shopping

Looking for the latest tech gadgets can be overwhelming, especially when it comes to smartwatches. With so many options available, it’s tempting to turn to AI for help in making the right choice. However, my recent experience with AI shopping assistants like ChatGPT, Gemini, Perplexity, and Copilot left me both impressed and disappointed.

When I set out to find a new smartwatch, I was excited to see what the AI bots could do. ChatGPT, in particular, stood out with its conversational approach and detailed Shopping Research feature. It asked me about my preferences, showed me a variety of products, and even created a personalized list of recommendations. However, despite its thoroughness, ChatGPT still led me to an outdated Garmin Vivoactive 5 instead of the newer Vivoactive 6.

Similarly, Gemini and Perplexity also fell short in providing up-to-date recommendations. While they suggested some newer models, they also included older options in their lists. This lack of awareness of the latest products could result in customers missing out on important features or upgrades.

Copilot, on the other hand, tailored its suggestions to my specific device, the CMF Phone 1, and recommended the CMF Watch Pro 2. While this was a good match, it overlooked the newer CMF Watch Pro 3. Despite this, Copilot’s shopping sidebar was the most useful, offering price history, pros and cons, and price tracking options.

Overall, all four AI models struggled to keep up with the latest tech trends. They often recommended older models or overlooked newer versions of products. While AI can be helpful in guiding users through the shopping process, it’s essential to do your research and verify the information provided by these assistants.

In conclusion, while AI shopping tools have potential, they currently fall short in providing accurate and up-to-date recommendations. For now, it’s best to supplement AI suggestions with reviews and comparisons from real people to ensure you’re getting the most current information. When it comes to tech shopping, a human touch is still irreplaceable.