Now with a shopping function: Perplexity relies on AI-based product search. An overview of the features and possible impacts on e-commerce.
The AI startup Perplexity is expanding its platform with a new feature: Perplexity Shopping. The goal is to combine research and purchasing of products into a single process. The company is thus following the trend of integrating value-added functions directly into the core of its services. The function is currently available via the Perplexity app and the desktop version and will be gradually rolled out to provide access to users worldwide. After integrating Ads, Perplexity is implementing a clear competitive attack on Google and Bing with the integration of this shopping solution and hopes to gain market share.
How does the Perplexity Shop Experience work?
At its core, the shopping integration is based on close collaboration with platforms such as Shopify. Users receive personalized product recommendations, accompanied by reviews and AI-powered analytics. The answers to shopping queries should not only be precise, but also directly actionable – an approach that corresponds to the increasing integration of AI into the everyday lives of many people. Chief Business Officer explains in an interview with OnlineMarketing.de Dmitry Shevelenko:
Perplexity (…) answers search queries with coherent answers, like in a conversation. Contextual understanding enables precise and differentiated answers and saves a lot of time.
A unique selling point is the focus on the combination of information and purchasing processes. Where classic search engines often only provide a large number of links, Perplexity wants to create targeted opportunities for action – a potentially exciting approach, especially in e-commerce.
In practice, the update works as follows: A user is looking for comfortable sports shoes for the winter. Perplexity analyzes reviews, compares prices on Shopify-based platforms, and lists suitable shoes that are suitable for low temperatures. At the same time, the platform displays available discount codes and makes it possible to complete the purchase directly, without any further intermediate steps.
Also one Image search with Snap to Shop is possible: This allows users to find products directly using images. Pro users in the USA can also buy products quickly and with free shipping. An international introduction of this function is already planned.
What does this mean for e-commerce?
Both consumers and publishers could benefit from the new function. For the latter, the planned revenue sharing program, which is part of the strategy, could be of interest. According to Perplexity, publishers whose content is used as a source should share in the revenue. However, the direct shopping integration and the avoidance of external site visits could also cause discussions – especially among retailers who have previously relied on independent platforms.
For Perplexity itself, the feature should be a way to stand out from the competition. At the same time, the start-up must prove that it meets the requirements for data protection and user experience, which are becoming increasingly important in the area of digital commerce.
The development shows once again how the boundaries between search, content distribution and commerce are increasingly blurring – and how central AI is becoming. It remains to be seen how the market and users react to Perplexity Shopping.
Perplexity brings ads to AI search
Source: onlinemarketing.de
