Google Cloud has unveiled a suite of innovative AI and generative AI-powered technologies designed to assist retailers in personalizing online shopping experiences, modernizing operations, and enhancing in-store technology implementations.
"In only a year, generative AI has morphed from a barely recognized concept to one of the fastest-moving capabilities in all of technology and a critical part of many retailers' agendas. With the ability to accelerate growth, boost efficiency, fuel innovation, and reduce toil, generative AI solutions are ready to be deployed now, and Google Cloud's recent innovations can help retailers recognize value in 2024," said Carrie Tharp, Vice President of Strategic Industries, Google Cloud.
With the retail landscape evolving, Google Cloud's new conversational commerce solution enables retailers to seamlessly integrate generative AI-powered virtual agents into their websites and mobile apps. These virtual agents engage in nuanced conversations with shoppers, offering personalized product recommendations based on individual preferences.
Additionally, Google Cloud introduces a new Large Language Model (LLM) capability in Vertex AI Search for retail. This feature provides retailers with Google-quality search, browse, and recommendations integrated directly into their digital storefronts. Retailers can tailor the LLM to their unique product catalog and shopper search patterns, enhancing their ability to present relevant products in response to customer queries.
Integrating with existing CRM systems
In the realm of core retail operations, Google Cloud presents a customer service modernization solution, that integrates with a retailer's existing CRM system, offering AI-based agents for improved shopper self-service and engagement. These agents can provide personalized product recommendations, schedule appointments, check order statuses, and utilize advanced AI capabilities for language translation to enhance the customer service experience.
Furthermore, Google Cloud introduces a catalog and content enrichment solution designed to simplify and expedite the product cataloging process. This solution automates the creation and analysis of product images and descriptive text, generating content such as product descriptions, metadata, and language optimized for search engine optimization (SEO). For instance, a sporting goods store's merchandising team could use this solution to efficiently bring their entire product catalog online with complete and accurate product descriptions.
Retail-focused configuration
Addressing the need for modernizing in-store technologies, Google Cloud's Distributed Cloud Edge offers a retailer-focused configuration. This hardware and software offering enables retailers to deliver AI-driven customer experiences across numerous locations, even with low or no internet connectivity. Retailers can benefit from comprehensive store analytics, and scalability for next-generation applications, such as AI-enabled solutions for frictionless checkout experiences or enhanced visibility for store associates.
Elsewhere, Google Cloud has partnered with Accenture to help businesses leverage generative AI for enhanced operational efficiency, the creation of new business avenues, and the development of distinctive customer experiences.
