Amazon Plans to Build a Global Product Database to Dominate AI-Powered Shopping

Amazon is developing an ambitious initiative called World Product Graph, aimed at creating a comprehensive database of virtually every product sold worldwide, including items not available on its own platform. According to an internal document reviewed by Reuters, the project seeks to provide detailed information about products, their features, versions and relationships, potentially strengthening Amazon’s position against Google and Walmart in online shopping. The initiative could transform Amazon into a one-stop destination for product research and purchases, reducing the need for customers to visit external websites for comparisons and reviews.

The project reportedly involves collecting product information directly from brands and retailers as well as independently gathering data from their websites. Companies including Coca-Cola and Bayer have already agreed to contribute product information, while Procter & Gamble has participated in discussions for a trial. The initiative is also expected to improve Amazon’s AI-powered shopping assistant, Rufus, by addressing inaccuracies and incomplete product recommendations. However, Amazon stated that the document was an outdated brainstorming proposal and did not necessarily represent its current plans. It also maintained that its Alexa for Shopping service achieves approximately 97% accuracy globally.

Beyond improving product discovery, World Product Graph could help Amazon counter the growing influence of independent AI shopping agents that direct consumers to competing retail platforms. The company is increasingly concerned that these agents could divert customers and advertising revenue to websites with more comprehensive product information. By building an extensive global product database, Amazon hopes to make its platform an essential destination for both shoppers and AI agents. Although an internal document suggests October 1, 2027, as an aspirational release date, Reuters could not confirm whether the project will be launched or when it might become operational.

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