With rising prices squeezing household budgets, nearly half of Americans say it’s harder than usual to afford holiday gifts this year—and many are turning to AI for help.
A new Associated Press poll shows that about 50% of U.S. adults are cutting back on holiday spending, citing inflation in groceries, utilities, and everyday essentials. As shoppers search for ways to stretch their dollars, artificial intelligence tools are quickly becoming their newest advisors.
Salesforce estimates that AI agents will help facilitate one in five holiday orders worldwide this season, generating an astounding $263 billion in sales. From comparing prices to suggesting budget-friendly gift options, AI chatbots are emerging as virtual personal shoppers for millions.
Retailers are moving fast to meet the shift. Walmart, Target, and other major chains have partnered with OpenAI, allowing customers to browse products and shop directly through ChatGPT. These AI integrations help overwhelmed shoppers find deals more efficiently while giving retailers a powerful new sales channel.
For many Americans feeling the pinch, the rise of AI-powered shopping isn’t just about convenience—it’s about survival during an increasingly expensive holiday season.
