In a groundbreaking announcement at the CES trade show in Las Vegas, Walmart, the United States’ largest retailer, Walmart, has declared its plan to significantly expand its use of artificial intelligence (AI) and drone technologies to enhance the shopping experience for its vast customer base.
A key highlight of this initiative is the expansion of drone delivery services to an additional 1.8 million households in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, indicating a surge in the demand for this cutting-edge service.
While Walmart’s engagement in drone delivery isn’t new — with over 20,000 deliveries already completed across seven states — this latest expansion marks a significant milestone. However, this latest expansion is a remarkable milestone, setting Walmart apart in the drone delivery market. This achievement is particularly huge for Walmart as it represents the most extensive drone coverage in a major metropolitan area, unmatched by any competitors.
Walmart’s commitment to integrating advanced AI and drone technologies underscores the company’s dedication to enhancing the overall shopping experience for its customers. Alongside its drone technology, Walmart is leveraging AI to further elevate the customer shopping experience. The company has introduced a generative AI-powered search tool for iOS users, designed to offer product suggestions based on consumer queries. This tool is tailored to cater to various events, from football watch parties to bridal showers, providing personalized and relevant recommendations, thereby simplifying the shopping process.
In an effort to change the dynamics of in-store shopping, Walmart-owned Sam’s Club is introducing new checkout technology. This system employs cameras at store exits to capture images of items in customers’ carts, confirming purchases without the need to stop at a cashier. This innovative technology, which is currently operational in 10 clubs, is set to be rolled out in more locations throughout the year.
Another major AI advancement is the introduction of “In-House Replenishment.” This system use AI to learn customers’ shopping habits, ensuring that their favorite groceries are always available. By analyzing customer patterns, this technology aims to streamline the restocking process, offering convenience and saving time for shoppers.
