Perplexity Launches AI Shopping Tools to Compete

AI search engine Perplexity has launched new shopping tools, aiming to compete with Google and Amazon by becoming a hub for product recommendations and purchases. The platform's features include 'Buy with Pro', allowing U.S. Pro users to purchase products directly within the app using stored payment information, and 'Snap to Shop', a visual search feature. These tools are integrated with Shopify, enabling users to access a wide range of products with free shipping for Pro subscribers. Perplexity has introduced a Merchant Program to enhance product listings and provide retailers insights into shopping trends. Despite the advancements, the company admits it is still working to understand the AI's product ranking algorithms. The startup, backed by Jeff Bezos and Nvidia, is valued at nearly $9 billion and is not currently monetizing these shopping features directly.