Amazon's new AI tool chats with you about products
What's the story
Amazon has launched a new artificial intelligence (AI) feature that provides real-time audio responses to product-related queries. The innovative "Join the chat" feature is designed to save customers from sifting through long descriptions or reviews by offering key product details directly. The AI synthesizes information about the product features, customer feedback, and other relevant data to deliver conversational audio responses.
Personalized interaction
AI-powered shopping experts
The audio responses are delivered by what Amazon calls "AI-powered shopping experts." These systems present information in a natural manner. The AI doesn't just provide generic answers but builds on previous responses to give more relevant and helpful information, without repeating anything. This is designed to mimic the experience of talking to an informed store employee.
User control
A customizable experience
Amazon emphasizes that with "Join the chat," customers can ask questions and steer the conversation. Each question they ask influences what comes next, making it a customizable experience. The feature is part of a larger offering called "Hear the highlights," which offers short audio summaries on millions of product pages within the Amazon shopping app.
Feature access
How to use 'Hear the highlights' feature?
The "Hear the highlights" feature, which began testing last May, is currently available in the US but only for select products. To use it, customers have to open a product page in the app and tap on the "Hear the highlights" button below the product image. From there, they can listen to a brief overview or tap on the "Join the chat" icon to ask specific questions via text or voice.