Unlock the Best Deals: Use AI Before Amazon’s Prime Day Ends!

Before making a purchase on Amazon during Prime Day, Justin Goldsberry, a marketing strategist from New York City, has a strategic plan: consulting an AI assistant. This year, Prime Day runs from July 8 to July 11, with early deals available beforehand, and Goldsberry is particularly interested in tech gadgets, books, and vinyl records. To ensure he secures the best prices, he’s utilizing generative AI to analyze potential deals.

In past Prime Day events, Goldsberry has successfully employed AI tools to identify the best times to buy items like cameras and speakers, asking questions such as, “When is the best time to buy [insert item] during Prime Day?” or “Is a competitor offering a better deal on this item right now?” His approach has proven effective, allowing him to shop smarter and maximize value on everyday purchases.

The Rise of AI in Online Shopping

Goldsberry’s experience reflects a growing trend among consumers who are turning to AI tools for assistance in online shopping. According to recent data from Adobe Analytics, 39% of U.S. consumers have utilized generative AI for shopping, with 53% planning to do so this year. AI experts note that these tools can save time and uncover deals that may not be highlighted among the official Prime Day promotions.

As Matt Britton, an expert in AI and consumer trends, points out, shoppers are increasingly using AI to streamline their buying process. During this Prime Day, many will likely ask their AI assistants to find the best deals on items such as headphones or laptops, with the AI scanning not just Amazon but other retailers like Walmart and Best Buy to locate the best prices.

Competing Sales and AI Innovations

In addition to Prime Day, major retailers like Target and Walmart are launching their own sales events during this same week, intensifying the competition. Amazon is also enhancing its platform with new AI features aimed at improving the shopping experience. One such feature, “Interests,” allows users to input conversational prompts about products, with the AI continuously scanning for relevant deals and updates.

Another innovation is the “Shopping Guides” feature, which utilizes AI to compile lists of products alongside educational content and customer insights. Additionally, a new feature enables users to listen to synthesized product summaries and reviews, further aiding their purchasing decisions.

Effective Use of AI Shopping Assistants

When utilizing AI tools for shopping, consumers should consider asking specific questions to maximize their effectiveness. For instance, when inputting a link to a Prime Day deal, shoppers can inquire about better deals or the best time to purchase. A recent test with Google’s generative AI tool, Gemini, showed that it could compare prices across various retailers and suggest whether the current price is a good deal.

However, experts caution that shoppers should remain vigilant. AI models can sometimes provide inaccurate information, known as “hallucinations,” so it’s essential to verify prices directly on retailer websites. Furthermore, consumers should avoid entering personal information, such as bank account details or passwords, into AI systems.

Tips for Securing the Best Deals

To ensure they are getting the best possible prices, shoppers are advised to use price-tracking websites like camelcamelcamel.com or keepa.com, which monitor Amazon prices and alert users to significant changes. These tools can help prevent falling victim to price anchoring, where higher “regular” prices are displayed to make sale prices appear more appealing.

According to industry experts, while AI can provide valuable insights into price history, consumers need to cross-reference AI-generated deals with price-tracking data to mitigate the risk of being misled. With the advancement of generative AI, it is now easier for shoppers to analyze product reviews for authenticity, flagging potentially fake reviews and ensuring they make informed decisions about their purchases.

The Future of Shopping with AI

As the shopping landscape continues to evolve, the integration of AI into the purchasing process is becoming increasingly significant. The days of endlessly scrolling through promotions may soon be over, as AI tools take on a more prominent role in guiding consumers to the best deals. The challenge for brands and retailers will be adapting to a marketplace where algorithms dictate the shopping experience rather than traditional advertising methods.

For those new to managing their finances, the rise of AI in shopping presents both opportunities and challenges. Engaging with these technologies can provide shoppers with unprecedented insights and savings, but it also requires a level of diligence to navigate effectively. Embracing AI can lead to smarter shopping and better financial decisions in the long run.