Walmart on Tuesday announced a new partnership with OpenAI that will let customers shop directly through ChatGPT.
The feature, which will roll out soon, will allow users to browse, plan meals, and restock household items through a chat interface that connects to Walmart’s Instant Checkout system. Shoppers will be able to add products and complete transactions without leaving the ChatGPT platform, the company said.
”For many years now, eCommerce shopping experiences have consisted of a search bar and a long list of item responses. That is about to change.” Walmart CEO Doug McMillon said in a statement. “We are running towards that more enjoyable and convenient future with Sparky and through partnerships, including this important step with OpenAI.”
OpenAI CEO Sam Altman said the collaboration is designed to “make everyday purchases a little simpler.”
Walmart and its warehouse chain Sam’s Club already use AI across operations, including managing inventory, improving online product listings, and speeding up customer service responses. The retailer said automation has reduced customer care resolution times by as much as 40% and shortened apparel production timelines by up to 18 weeks.
The company also plans to expand AI tools for employees by offering OpenAI certification programs and access to ChatGPT Enterprise, aiming to improve workplace efficiency and digital literacy.
Walmart said the partnership reflects its broader goal of using technology to enhance shopping without replacing human interaction. The company also has an FAQ section for the new partnership here.
