LY Corp launches AI search on Yahoo Shopping app

Tokyo, Japan - LY Corporation announced on Wednesday that it has launched a beta version of a generative artificial intelligence product search function on its Yahoo Shopping application.

The function operates on the iOS version of the Yahoo Shopping app, where users answer questions and receive product suggestions from the AI system.

The company stated that the feature is currently available to select iOS users, with an Android version planned.

Users enter keywords in the search field, prompting the AI to display questions.

The system asks about factors such as whether products are intended for single-person or family use, budget ranges, and specific requirements, according to the company statement.

The AI suggests a maximum of five products based on user responses. Each recommendation includes what the company calls an "AI Match Score," indicating alignment between user answers and product characteristics.

LY established a team called the "Generative AI Tackle Room" in April 2024.

The company previously introduced AI functions, including purchase date recommendations for point optimization and review summarization features.

The current beta requires iOS version 18.7.0 or higher.

The company stated that availability varies by device due to a staged rollout and noted that some products are excluded from the function.

Selected products display additional information, including summaries, promotional timing, review summaries, and comparisons with other products, the company said.

The system uses OpenAI's application programming interface, according to the statement. LY said the beta version may be discontinued or modified without notice.

The company stated that it aims to implement AI agents across all its services and continue expanding generative AI in its commerce operations.