The spread of agents based on artificial intelligence (AI) in online shopping, which is expected in the next few years, has so far met with a majority of skeptical consumers. In addition, a survey commissioned by the payment service provider Unzer shows both a generational and, to a lesser extent, a gender gap. The survey institute Insa surveyed a total of 1,004 people aged 18 and over in January.
In detail: Overall, 37 percent are open to using AI-based shopping assistants, while 54 percent consider this to be “somewhat” or even “very” unlikely. The remaining nine percent were undecided or left the question unanswered.
AI agents will become commonplace in the next few years
“Agent” AI is the next stage in the development of the technology after the currently common “generative” AI. In online shopping, AI functions have so far been largely limited to answering questions and providing help with product searches. AI purchasing agents, on the other hand, will be able to order and – after the user’s final click, like a transfer – also pay, including the automated processing of long shopping lists. A large majority of 64 percent do not want to hand over control of spending to AI and authorize every step of a purchase.
Many women approach AI shopping with reservation
Women still do the majority of shopping in many families, but according to the survey, they are significantly more skeptical about shopping with AI help than men: Less than a third (32 percent) see themselves as likely users of AI shopping assistants. For men it is at least 41 percent.
However, the generational gap is even greater: in the age group 70 and over, three quarters do not believe that they will use AI shopping assistants in the future. Among younger people under forty it is also less than 40 percent.
“Agency” AI is also coming into working life
AI agents are not yet widespread, but will also play an increasing role in working life in the future. The US company Microsoft has it
