Alibaba has introduced an AI-powered search engine named Accio, designed specifically for small businesses in Europe and the Americas to streamline sourcing. Unveiled at the Canton Fair in Guangdong, China, Accio uses technology similar to ChatGPT, resulting in a 40% increase in purchase intent for users compared to traditional search engines. The tool supports multiple languages and allows users to find wholesale products by entering text or images, offering insights on product popularity and projected profits. It harnesses data from 50 million businesses and integrates a vast number of product listings, aiming to enhance the efficiency of global trade for small enterprises.
Alibaba Unveils AI-Powered Search Engine for Small Businesses
In a significant development at the Canton Fair in Guangdong, China on October 16, 2024, Alibaba International launched an innovative artificial intelligence-powered search engine aimed at assisting small businesses in Europe and America with sourcing supplies. The new tool, dubbed “Accio,” is designed to enhance sales by leveraging technology similar to ChatGPT. Preliminary trials have indicated a remarkable 40% increase in purchase intent among businesses using this tool compared to traditional search engines.
Named after a spell from the Harry Potter series that summons objects, Accio is a web-based platform supporting multiple languages, including English, German, French, Portuguese, and Spanish. Users can efficiently search for wholesale products by simply entering text or providing image prompts. The tool not only offers various procurement options directly from suppliers but also analyzes product popularity and projected profits.
Powered by Alibaba’s Tongyi Qianwen large language model, Accio utilizes data from 50 million businesses on the Alibaba International platform and contains an extensive database of 1 billion product listings across over 100 markets. This approach allows small businesses to navigate the wholesale landscape with greater ease.
Alibaba is also enhancing its services for international clients, having recently improved its AI translation tool claimed to outperform competitors like Google and ChatGPT. With the growing focus on AI technologies, Alibaba continues to expand its international arm, though its primary revenue still comes from domestic platforms like Taobao and Tmall.
As businesses increasingly adopt generative AI tools, Alibaba remains at the forefront, keeping its goal of boosting productivity in mind. The quarterly earnings report is set to be released soon, shedding more light on the company’s ongoing innovations and growth strategy.
Tags: Alibaba, AI search engine, small businesses, Canton Fair, e-commerce, wholesale sourcing, technology, productivity tools, Tongyi Qianwen, international markets.
What is Alibaba’s new AI search feature?
Alibaba’s new AI search feature uses smart technology to help small businesses find products and connect with buyers more easily.
How does the AI search affect small businesses?
The AI search helps small businesses by increasing visibility and making it easier for customers to find what they are looking for, which can lead to more sales.
What does “purchase intent jumps” mean?
“Purchase intent jumps” means that more people are likely to buy products after using the new AI search, showing that it is effective in connecting buyers with sellers.
Is this AI search feature available for all businesses?
Yes, the AI search feature is available for all small businesses using Alibaba’s platform, allowing them to benefit from the technology.
How can small businesses use the AI search to improve sales?
Small businesses can use the AI search by optimizing their product listings and making sure they are using relevant keywords, which will help attract more customers.
