Google Lens is revolutionizing in-store shopping by providing users with personalized search results based on the store they are in. The new feature, announced this week, allows shoppers to snap a picture of a product and receive instant insights, including reviews, price comparisons, and information on similar items available at the same store.
Personalized Shopping at Your Fingertips
The in-store search function, available for beauty products, toys, and electronics, uses advanced technology to make the in-store shopping experience more seamless. When a user captures an image of an item, Google Lens displays relevant product details, customer reviews, and a comparison of prices across competitors. Additionally, the tool will highlight similar items in stock at that very location, allowing users to make informed decisions before making a purchase.
“We all know that there’s nothing like the magic of shopping in-store, especially during the holidays, but at the same time, many people have come to rely on reading reviews,” said Lilian Rincon, VP of product management at Google. This feature bridges the gap between the convenience of online shopping and the tactile experience of browsing physical stores.
The Power of In-Store AI Integration
Google Lens now incorporates the company’s Gemini generative AI model to power its new in-store feature, but the focus is on creating a natural, helpful shopping experience. The tool is designed to provide real-time, store-specific information, excluding items available only online.
This update comes at a time when more than 70% of Americans report using their smartphones while shopping in physical stores, according to a September survey by Google and Ipsos. Whether comparing prices on a toy or finding similar beauty products, the Lens feature enhances the value of in-store visits by integrating online insights directly into the shopper’s routine.
Expanding Categories and Future Growth
Google plans to expand this in-store feature to additional product categories, making it a more versatile tool for various shopping needs. The update is now available to all Google app users who have location data sharing enabled, and it works at retailers that have partnered with Google to share their inventory data.
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