Observed Signal · Sep 10, 2026 · Research Publication · Source: https://martechseries.com/feed/ · Impact: 3/5 · Sentiment: Positive
Consumers Prefer AI Shopping Recommendations Including Creator Perspectives: IAB Study
The IAB released a global study showing that 56% of consumers prefer AI-generated shopping recommendations that include creator or influencer perspectives, and 65% are more confident in AI recommendations when informed by credible creator reviews. The survey covered 2,200 consumers in the U.S., U.K., Australia, Mexico, and India, revealing strong preference among Gen Z and Millennials. Key findings include that authenticity and expertise drive trust, with everyday consumers being the most trusted creator type. The study highlights an opportunity for AI platforms to integrate creator content to enhance trust in shopping guidance, especially as 72% of consumers use AI assistants for shopping decisions.
This research highlights a significant trend in AI-driven shopping and creator marketing, presenting opportunities for AdTech and MarTech companies to integrate creator content, but it is not a major platform update or financial event.
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Key Takeaways & Evidence Grounding
- 56% of consumers prefer AI shopping recommendations that incorporate creator perspectives.
- 65% of consumers are more confident in AI recommendations when informed by credible creator reviews.
- 72% of consumers use general-purpose AI assistants for shopping-related decisions.
- 65% of Gen Z and Millennials prefer creator-informed AI recommendations.
- IAB surveyed 2,200 consumers across the U.S., U.K., Australia, Mexico, and India.
Connected Companies & Entities
1 Entity mapped“Interactive Advertising Bureau (IAB) released new global research examining how consumers value creator perspectives in AI-generated shoppin...”
Ontology Mapping & Concepts
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Majority of Gen Z and Millennials Trust AI Influencers
A new Awin study reveals that 54% of Gen Z and Millennials globally are willing to trust AI influencers, with 42% across all age groups. In Germany, 51% of 25-34-year-olds and 41% of 18-24-year-olds are open to AI influencers, compared to only 22% of those over 65. Nearly half of Germans aged 18-34 have purchased a product directly after a creator recommendation without further research. AI tools like ChatGPT, Copilot, and Gemini are increasingly used in purchase decisions, with 22% of German consumers using them. Transparency is key, as 33% globally cite it as the most important trust factor in creators. Purchases still primarily occur on established channels, with 43% via online marketplaces.
Shoppers burned by bad AI recommendations, survey finds
A SmartCustomer survey of nearly 1,200 US consumers reveals that while 89% don't fully trust AI recommendations, 76% have used AI to make purchases in the past year, and a third made regrettable purchases based on AI advice. Electronics, apparel, and footwear dominate these poor choices. The survey also indicates that 98% believe AI companies hold responsibility for validating sources and legitimacy, and 53% suspect companies of manipulating AI recommendations with false information. Additional findings show gender and generational divides in AI shopping adoption, with men shopping via AI more than women, and Gen Z being more hesitant. Other surveys by YouGov, RTB House, and Gartner corroborate trust issues and consumer preference for human oversight in AI-assisted commerce.
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