The mainstreaming of AI is setting a new precedent for how people relate to non-human sources of intelligence. While automation on a consumer level has typically focused on specific tasks like replying to emails or budgeting, it’s now swiftly expanding to a more dynamic range of applications.

EzyCart was developed to streamline the grocery shopping process, with payments, weighing, and more taking place directly in the tech-enabled cart. With people holding reservations about AI yet wanting to automate menial tasks, these kinds of products show how the tech can be useful in daily life.

Instacart has debuted ads on its AI-powered Caper Carts at select stores, offering personalized recommendations for shoppers based on real-time shopping behaviors. As people become accustomed to personalized recommendations, brands are innovating to create seamless personalized shopping experiences.

After the launch of its Swift convenience stores in 2021, Iceland is expanding the chain with four locations in London. With the pandemic and cost of living crisis impacting people’s shopping behaviours, supermarkets are switching up their formats to meet demands for convenience and affordability.

The Alibaba-owned Freshippo supermarkets are transforming the grocery shopping experience in China into one that’s truly seamless and omnichannel. In doing so, these stores are responding to the changing habits and expectations of post-pandemic Chinese grocery shoppers.