- AI has become the third most-used channel for product research, following search engines and retailer websites/apps.
- 44% of consumers report that AI has reduced their use of search engines for purchase research.
- Consumers primarily use AI for early shopping stages like inspiration, comparison, and pricing, not for final purchases due to trust concerns.
- Businesses must adapt to how AI perceives their brand and ensure accurate, structured product information for AI-driven discovery.
- The next phase involves AI agents acting on consumers' behalf; 31% are already comfortable with AI completing purchases.