Amazon has threatened Perplexity with a cease-and-desist letter, demanding that the AI start-up block its browser from making purchases on behalf of users in the Amazon Store. The move comes as AI-powered shopping assistants become increasingly popular.
Amazon claims that Perplexity’s Comet browser violates its conditions of use by not identifying itself as an AI agent and potentially disrupting customer relationships. However, Perplexity sees this as a threat to all internet users and argues that its technology empowers users through automation.
The dispute highlights the tension between companies like Amazon, which rely on ad-based models, and startups like Perplexity, which aim to expand human agency by providing seamless online shopping experiences.
Amazon has launched its own AI shopping assistant, Rufus, and Shopify has reported a significant increase in purchases through AI-powered search. As AI continues to evolve, it’s unclear whose technology will ultimately win out in the battle for e-commerce dominance.
Source: https://www.zdnet.com/article/why-amazon-really-doesnt-want-perplexitys-ai-browser-shopping-for-you