Artificial intelligence has become a hot topic and it appears to be making its way into the hands of everyday individuals. Target Corp. aims to introduce this powerful and all-encompassing technology to its store associates first. The company plans to launch its gen AI-powered chatbot, Store Companion, in August. This tool will be provided to associates in its nearly 2, 000 stores, helping them with on-the-job process questions, coaching new team members, and supporting store operations management. The Store Companion chatbot will be available as an app on employees' handheld devices, serving as a knowledgeable associate. It can provide answers to queries such as, "How do I enroll a guest for a Target Circle Card?" or "What should I do if there's a power outage and I need to restart the cash register?" Target has already pilot-tested the tool in approximately 400 stores, yielding positive results. Target's implementation of AI technology for its store associates is just the beginning. It serves as an example of the potential for AI to bring about significant changes in retail.

Many companies are racing to incorporate AI into their operations, not only to improve efficiency but also to showcase their adoption of cutting-edge technology. In addition to Store Companion, Target is also planning the rollout of another internal gen AI tool for its headquarters staff. The retailer already utilizes AI to enhance its online product pages and search functionality, allowing for tailored search results, improved product descriptions, and summarized reviews. Various other AI tools are currently being tested within the company. Target emphasizes its commitment to technology as a catalyst for innovation and growth in the future of retail. Executives believe that these new tools and applications will empower their team members to serve customers better and create an enjoyable shopping experience. While Target strives to bring everyday joy to its customers, the wider world is still grappling with its perception of AI. ChatGPT, for instance, continues to impress with its ability to comprehend casual inquiries and generate detailed and articulate responses, despite occasional inaccuracies. The impact of AI on daily life and jobs is still uncertain, making Target's store associates the frontline observers of this evolving technology's effects.