Shoppers find AI agents need a short leash — unless you need 20 pounds of chicken wings
Consumers are increasingly using AI shopping agents to automate tasks like price monitoring and grocery ordering, though users remain cautious about granting full autonomy. While these tools offer convenience, they are prone to errors and security concerns, necessitating human oversight.
Why it matters
It reflects the growing trend of AI-driven consumerism and the current limitations of autonomous agents in real-world commerce.
Some shoppers are using AI agents like Instinct and Muse to find and order products for them. Smith Collection/Gado/Getty Images Shoppers are using AI agents like Muse and Instinct to buy stuff online. Three users said they're using the agents to monitor flight prices and order groceries. They also pointed to kinks, such as misunderstandings and paying securely. AI agents like Instinct and Muse are quickly becoming personal shoppers — and some are finding the tools need to be kept on a short leash. From finding cheap airline tickets to ordering groceries, three shoppers told Business Insider that they are using the agents to automate parts of their shopping. Some say the decision has saved them time and found them deals they would not have found on their own. But even those impressed with AI agents as shopping assistants say they're using them carefully.
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