Honeywell has launched a new AI-enabled Smart Shopping Platform. This platform wants to change retail. It combines the smart features of online shopping with the personal touch of physical stores. It was created with Google Cloud and 66degrees. The platform uses Google’s Gemini AI and Google Cloud’s Vertex AI. This technology offers real-time, personalized support to shoppers and staff.
Honeywell will launch the Smart Shopping Platform worldwide in February 2026. This marks a big step in retail’s digital transformation. This platform blends online shopping’s ease with the in-store experience. It’s changing the retail game. Honeywell will introduce this new technology to retailers globally, beginning in February 2026.
Transforming the In-Store Experience
The Smart Shopping Platform is a strong AI tool in the cloud. It links a retailer’s digital data-like inventory, loyalty accounts, promotions, and store maps-to what happens in-store. This platform lets shoppers link their loyalty accounts. They can use devices like the Honeywell CS32 Personal Shopper. They receive personalized recommendations that consider their purchase history, preferences, and current promotions. The system provides real-time navigation, allowing customers to quickly find products. When an item is out of stock, the system recommends similar alternatives, mirroring the functionality of online stores. The Smart Shopping Platform makes shopping quicker and easier for customers.
Retail associates can use tools like the Honeywell CT70. This makes them experts. They can then assist customers more effectively. This emphasis on customer experience and employee productivity shows a larger trend in the industry. Companies are using AI to automate tasks and improve service and engagement.
Why This Matters to the Retail Industry
This development hits a key moment for retail. Analysts say AI is reshaping how retailers function. It enhances personalized shopping, customer engagement, inventory use, and supply chain efficiency. Retailers want to compete with online giants. They also aim to satisfy growing consumer demands for convenience and customization. IBM shows that AI in retail creates personalized experiences. This boosts customer loyalty and sales.
Here’s how Honeywell’s new platform could reshape retail operations and competitive positioning:
1. Enhanced Personalization Drives Sales and Loyalty
Personalization is vital for retail success, especially online. Using similar methods in physical stores can bridge digital and in-store experiences. AI-driven suggestions and real-time support can increase basket size. They also raise conversion rates and promote loyalty. When customers feel recognized and valued, they are more likely to return.
2. Streamlined Operations and Workforce Support
Retailers still struggle with labor shortages and high costs. They can improve customer satisfaction by equipping staff with quick insight tools. These tools help staff locate products or find alternatives faster. This reduces training time and lowers inefficiencies. This method matches the increasing trend of using AI. It allows staff to handle complex tasks more accurately and efficiently.
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3. Real-Time Insights Amplify Decision-Making
AI analyzes data in real time. This helps retailers quickly adjust stock levels and respond to customer behavior and demand signals. Such responsiveness optimizes inventory and reduces lost sales from out-of-stock items. This is a major revenue issue for many brick-and-mortar retailers.
Broader Industry Impacts
AI is changing retail as part of a bigger trend. At the 2026 National Retail Federation (NRF) conference, Walmart highlighted new AI tools. These tools allow customers to shop through platforms like Google’s Gemini. This demonstrates how AI is reshaping omnichannel retail.
AI is enhancing supply chain efficiency, inventory accuracy, and customer service automation. Many retailers currently use AI or plan to boost their investments soon.
Challenges and Considerations
Businesses see clear benefits in AI, but they face challenges with data privacy, ethical data use, and algorithmic fairness. Research shows consumers worry about their data usage and trust in AI systems. Retailers should focus on clear data practices and ethical AI. This helps build customer trust and meet rules.
What This Means for Businesses
Retailers can distinguish themselves with AI platforms like Honeywell’s Smart Shopping Platform. Small and mid-sized retailers can use this technology easily. They don’t need deep AI knowledge. This lets them compete well with larger firms. Businesses can offer real-time personalized experiences. This blends the ease of online shopping with the excitement of in-store visits.
To meet changing consumer needs, it’s key to link digital intelligence with physical retail. This integration ensures smooth and tailored experiences, driving success.