In an impressive turn of events, American online consumers spent a jaw-dropping $257.8 billion during the 2025 holiday shopping season. This marks a significant 6.9% increase from the previous year, and it seems like a turbocharged sleigh ride thanks to the rise of artificial intelligence (AI) tools. According to the latest data from Adobe Analytics, shoppers are not just tapping their credit cards; they are engaging in a whole new level of tech-savvy shopping.
The holiday shopping season saw a remarkable 693.4% surge in traffic directed to retailer websites from AI generative chatbots. That’s not just a little bump; it’s more like a rocket launch! As consumers increasingly sought the convenience of AI-enhanced shopping experiences, major companies like FedEx reported that an astounding 97% of U.S. retailers were gearing up to incorporate AI into their sales strategies. This move includes everything from improved customer service to smarter pricing strategies, allowing customers to get what they want faster than ever.
One of the biggest names joining the AI revolution is Walmart. The big box retailer has teamed up with ChatGPT, enabling customers to shop directly through an AI interface. This innovation allows customers to ask questions and receive instant responses, making online shopping feel almost like chatting with a knowledgeable friend. As if things couldn’t get any more high-tech, a December poll by Future Commerce revealed that 52% of respondents were already using AI tools for their shopping, and nearly half of them kicked off their shopping journey with AI-enhanced research.
But it doesn’t stop there. A survey from Salesforce indicates that shoppers are excited about using AI for more than just finding deals. They are also interested in utilizing AI tools for returns and exchanges, further streamlining the shopping process. Online retailers are clearly recognizing the power of AI, with $229 billion of global online holiday sales influenced in some way by these advanced tools. It’s clear that product recommendations and targeted offers have become essential into the shopping experience.
However, the road to the future isn’t entirely smooth. Some online retailers have had their feathers ruffled by Amazon’s “shop direct” AI tool, which has begun listing products from other sites without their consent. It appears that even in the digital world, there are growing pains to be had. As companies continue to navigate this thrilling new world of AI-enhanced shopping, one thing is for sure: consumers are eager to embrace the changes. With technology leading the way, the holiday shopping experience is bound to be even more exciting in the years to come!
