Walmart CEO Doug McMillon and other executives discussed new and expanded technology initiatives at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas. Key points from their discussions include:
- McMillon emphasized that technology should be used to enhance the customer experience and business performance, rather than replacing human workers.
- Walmart worked with Microsoft to improve the online browsing and search functions of Walmart.com using artificial intelligence (AI). The new AI-powered search experience provides users with a more convenient shopping trip and is now live on IOS Apple technology.
- Sam’s Club is piloting AI that automatically scans a member’s receipt if they used the Scan & Go option with their mobile phones. This eliminates the need for members to have their receipts checked at the door.
- Walmart is beta testing a new feature called “Shop with Friends,” which is a social commerce platform that uses augmented reality, virtual try-on, and other technologies. Customers can mix and match apparel items to create virtual outfits and share them with friends for feedback.
- Walmart’s InHome program offers customers the opportunity to have their orders placed inside their homes or refrigerators. They are now introducing InHome Replenishment, an AI-powered feature that anticipates and plans orders delivered directly to customer’s pantries and refrigerators.
- Walmart has been conducting drone deliveries in the Dallas metro area and has expanded the service to more than 30 towns and municipalities. The deliveries can be received within 10 to 30 minutes.
Overall, Walmart is focused on using technology to improve the customer experience, streamline operations, and drive growth. They are leveraging AI, augmented reality, and drones to enhance browsing and search, streamline checkout, offer social shopping features, and provide convenient delivery options.