Google’s cloud computing unit is enhancing generative artificial intelligence tools for retailers to integrate personalized chatbots into websites or mobile apps and increase the visibility of their products in online searches.
Google has confirmed that it is reducing “a few hundred” positions from its global ad team as part of its efforts to leverage artificial intelligence for efficiency and creativity.
The job cuts in its “large customer” sales team aim to provide better support for small and medium-sized businesses advertising on Google’s platform.
Google expects the expansion of small business ad teams to lead to increased hiring this year.
While Google did not mention generative AI, it is a disruptive force in various sectors, including advertising.
Last week, Google’s cloud computing unit unveiled new AI tools to assist retailers in “personalizing online shopping, modernizing operations, and transforming in-store technology rollouts.”
Research cited by Google indicates that about 80 percent of US retailers consider it urgent to adopt generative AI in their operations.
According to Google Cloud strategic industries vice president Carrie Tharp, generative AI has rapidly become a critical capability in technology and an essential part of many retailers’ agendas.
The new Google AI tools enable retailers to seamlessly embed virtual agents in websites or mobile apps to offer personalized assistance and recommendations to shoppers.
Google AI is also utilized to analyze product images and generate product descriptions or terms to optimize discovery in online searches.
About a year ago, Google laid off approximately 12,000 employees, or about six percent of its workforce, due to inflation and rising interest rates.
Since then, the Silicon Valley company has made significant investments in generative AI.
Source from www.ibtimes.com