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Are ai shopping assistants helpful or a distraction?

AI Shopping Assistants | Users React with Mixed Feelings

By

Carlos Mendes

Jan 7, 2026, 12:23 PM

2 minutes needed to read

A person shopping online with AI assistance on a laptop, looking thoughtful

A growing number of online shoppers are expressing their thoughts on AI shopping assistants. As people try tools like Glance AI, opinions are split on whether these recommendations genuinely enhance the shopping experience or complicate it further.

Navigating the AI Shopping Experience

Reports from readers show a varied landscape of emotional responses. While some find the suggestions from AI assistants beneficial, others feel overwhelmed or distracted.

One shopper stated, "This is a good idea man", emphasizing a positive angle. However, another remarked, "I feel mixed about them so far", pinpointing the inconsistency in recommendations that sometimes hit the mark and other times appear entirely random.

Key Themes from Recent Discussions

  • Varying Effectiveness: Many users highlight that when tuned well, these tools save time and enhance the shopping experience. Yet, unhelpful suggestions can deter shoppers.

  • Skepticism about Intent: Some believe that shopping sites design AI tools merely to push sales rather than genuinely assist. The comparison to dating apps underscores this concern.

  • Independent Tools Shine: Individuals are finding value in more autonomous AI solutions. One person shared their enjoyment from using a chat-based tool to analyze skin care products, demonstrating that effective AI can provide meaningful guidance.

"The AI has kind of given me fashion advice, and I have to admit it's given me some decent ideas," one user noted honestly.

Patterns of Sentiment

Most comments convey a neutral to slightly positive sentiment, but the apprehension around AI's intentions lingers. Many people appreciate the innovative edge these tools bring, yet there's a fear they may ultimately lead to unnecessary complications.

Key Takeaways

  • โœจย Mixed Feelings: Users are divided on whether AI shopping assistants are beneficial or just noise.

  • โ“ย Concerns About Purpose: Many believe AI tools are built to boost sales, not assist adequately.

  • ๐ŸŒˆย Independently Developed Tools: Shoppers find success using non-commercial AI solutions for personal guidance.

As the discussion evolves, the question remains: Can AI successfully bridge the gap between convenience and genuine assistance in shopping?

What Lies Ahead for AI Shopping Assistants

Thereโ€™s a strong chance that AI shopping assistants will continue to evolve as technologies advance. It is estimated that by 2027, over 70% of online retailers will integrate more sophisticated AI tools, making recommendations more accurate and user-focused. This shift will likely arise from growing consumer demand for personalization and ease in shopping. Additionally, if the skepticism regarding the intentions of these tools persists, companies may find it increasingly essential to demonstrate transparency in how recommendations are made to regain trust. If they succeed, we could see a more seamless shopping experience, but if they falter, shoppers may push back against these tools altogether.

Lessons from the Toy Industry

One might draw a parallel between the current situation with AI shopping assistants and the evolution of toys in the 1950s and 60s. Back then, toy companies faced resistance from parents skeptical of the over-commercialization of play. Yet, when brands began to emphasize educational value alongside entertainment, acceptance grew. Similarly, AI shopping tools must prove they enhance the shopping journey rather than complicate it. If they can illustrate genuine benefits, the path ahead may be bright, much like the transformation of toys into vital educational tools over time.