Post by : Badri Ariffin

OpenAI has introduced an innovative AI-driven shopping research tool within ChatGPT, designed to assist users in making informed purchases as the US holiday season approaches. This feature—accessible to both free and premium users—offers customized product recommendations based on credible online reviews rather than marketing content.

Featuring a dedicated “shopping research” button, this new tool transitions ChatGPT into an interactive quiz format. Users are prompted with brief questions to specify their needs—be it a modern couch suited for smaller spaces, a thoughtful gift for an artistic child, or a dependable kitchen gadget.

The dialogue is crafted to create a more engaging experience. As the tool collects preferences regarding budget, color, size, and intended use, it provides 10 to 15 curated product options. Users can refine these suggestions by indicating interest through options like “more like this” or “not interested”, tailoring results to individual preferences rather than generic searches.

OpenAI explains that this iteration of its GPT-5 mini model draws heavily from authentic online sources, including Reddit conversations and community feedback, steering clear of paid endorsements or biased listings. This positions the tool as an unbiased research aide for shoppers.

This feature is currently available for free with “almost limitless use” until January, operating independently from ChatGPT’s existing shopping options for Etsy and Shopify, exclusive to US users.

While the assistant excels in areas such as electronics, cosmetics, kitchen tools, and home improvement, generating recommendations may take a few minutes. OpenAI recommends utilizing standard ChatGPT functionality for simpler queries like price checks or specification confirmations.

The company acknowledges that it is still honing how it processes and evaluates online reviews, particularly in differentiating authentic feedback from sponsored material. Nonetheless, this enhancement highlights the increasing initiative among AI platforms to integrate into consumer purchasing behavior, a sector becoming more competitive as the holiday season nears.

#AI #Technology #ChatGPT