Welcome to the forefront of conversational AI as we explore the fascinating world of AI chatbots in our dedicated blog series. Discover the latest advancements, applications, and strategies that propel the evolution of chatbot technology. From enhancing customer interactions to streamlining business processes, these articles delve into the innovative ways artificial intelligence is shaping the landscape of automated conversational agents. Whether you’re a business owner, developer, or simply intrigued by the future of interactive technology, join us on this journey to unravel the transformative power and endless possibilities of AI chatbots.
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On Monday, Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) accused Alphabet Inc.'s (NASDAQ:GOOG) (NASDAQ:GOOGL) Google of blurring the line between helpful recommendations and consumer manipulation by embedding instant checkout into its Gemini AI chatbot.
Warren took to X and said that Google's move to integrate its Gemini AI model into shopping services could give the tech giant new ways to influence consumer behavior.
"This could allow Google and its partners to violate consumer privacy and manipulate consumers into spending more and paying higher prices," she wrote on X, adding, "I'm pushing for answers."
Her comments come as Google accelerates efforts to turn Gemini into a full-fledged shopping assistant rather than just a search or chat tool.
Google did not immediately respond to Benzinga’s request for comments.
The update allows users to search for products, receive recommendations and complete purchases without leaving the chatbot.
An instant checkout feature lets shoppers pay using cards linked to their Google accounts, with support for PayPal expected soon. Google said the AI-powered shopping tools will launch first in the U.S., with international expansion planned.
If a user asks Gemini for product suggestions — such as gear for a winter ski trip — the chatbot pulls items from participating retailers' inventories.
Customers who link their Google and Walmart accounts may receive personalized recommendations based on past purchases, with items added directly to their Walmart or Sam's Club carts.
Price Action: Alphabet Class A shares are down 0.018% in after-hours trading while Class C shares slipped 0.083%, according to Benzionga Pro.
GOOGL shows a stronger price trend across the short, medium and long term, though it carries a weak value ranking, according to Benzinga Edge Stock Rankings.
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Last month, Google announced partnerships with major retailers, including Walmart (NASDAQ:WMT), Shopify (NASDAQ:SHOP) and Wayfair (NYSE:W) to expand shopping features in Gemini.
Google is not alone. OpenAI and Walmart announced a similar instant checkout partnership last year, while Amazon.com, Inc. (NASDAQ:AMZN) is also developing AI-driven shopping tools.
