Member Exclusive: Latest Trend Hunter Report Analyzes Impact of AI on Consumer Products

June 16, 2023 | Toy Association members can now access a complimentary new Trend Hunter report that explores the ways companies are investing in artificial intelligence (AI) to incorporate the technology into consumer products and experiences, from tracking in-store inventory to action figures that can hold a conversation.

Some of the key trends and examples highlighted in this report include:

  • AI Advertisement: Startups are combining multiple AI-based services into comprehensive platforms that generate custom advertisements. These use image, video, and text-generation to create entire marketing campaigns, streamlining the process for clients and saving on time and budget. Image and video editing platform Picsart launched the Adpilot platform designed to generate social media ads from only a minimal amount of input.
  • AI Companions: Companies are now launching chatbots with more personality-focused models that offer virtual companionship to users. These chatbots learn their users and form bonds. CATI, a CES 2023 Innovation Awards Honoree, is a soft plush toy robot that is the first multi-turn conversational AI companion for kids ages 2 to 5.
  • AI Action Figures: Boutique robot company Robosen partnered with Pixar and Disney to release a screen-accurate Space Ranger Buzz Lightyear figure from the Lightyear movie. This toy has fluid mobility and the ability to converse with its users thanks to its 50 different microchips, 23 precision motors, and an array of advanced algorithms. The most notable aspect of the action figure is its built-in conversational AI, which features intelligent voice recognition that allows for natural, flowing conversations between users and the toy.
  • AI-Powered Inventory Tech: Google Cloud is launching an AI-backed feature that allows consumers to track items on store shelves in real-time. The system utilizes a vast data library to identify products in photos, helping retailers better understand customer demands and move toward digital e-commerce. This shelf-checking tool will also help retailers track out-of-stock items and ensure pricing accuracy. The new feature works to identify products at varying angles, including through security cameras installed throughout a store.

This report is the latest in a series from Trend Hunter that is exclusive to Toy Association members. These reports offer in-depth perspectives and trends in various areas related to the toy industry and youth markets to help spark unique ideas. For additional relevant trends, members can click on the report’s consumer insights examples, scroll down, and click the images for further information.

TrendHunter.com has accumulated nearly 3 billion views from more than 100 million visitors. The data research company helps clients “Dive Deeper,” “Work Smarter,” and “Save Effort” in order to increase the overall success of their companies and brands.