Amazon Launches AI Chatbot Rufus in India to Enhance Mobile Shopping Experience

Amazon has introduced its AI-driven shopping assistant, Rufus, in beta mode for users in India. This chatbot, part of the Amazon mobile app, is designed to respond to inquiries, suggest product options, and compare items to aid users in making informed purchases. Previously revealed in February for users in the US, this feature is now gradually being made available to more users in India.

The technology firm announced the rollout of Rufus in India on Tuesday, indicating that the AI-assisted chatbot will be accessible in its beta form to a selected group of users within the Amazon mobile app. Once users are granted access to Rufus, they will have the capability to view a newly incorporated insignia located at the bottom right fringe of the app interface. Tapping this icon reveals Rufus' interface in a bottom sheet fashion.

A text input field is integrated into the bottom sheet for users to enter their queries. If they face difficulties initiating a conversation, suggested questions will be provided for assistance. To finish the dialogue, users can simply swipe down the sheet. When reopened, the chat interface will display the prior conversation for continuity.

According to Amazon, users can interact with Rufus while browsing various product categories, ask for gift recommendations based on events or occasions, compare various products, seek suggestions, and inquire about specific items while viewing their detail pages.

The chatbot is powered by Amazon's extensive database, along with the capability to access the Internet for relevant answers to user queries, according to the company. However, Amazon cautioned that the assistant may occasionally provide incorrect information or generate misleading responses. Users can offer feedback by rating the chatbot’s responses with either a thumbs up or thumbs down, and there is also an option to submit more detailed feedback.

Interestingly, the origin of the chatbot's name reflects a unique aspect of Amazon's workplace culture. Reports indicate that Amazon allows its employees to bring dogs to work, and Rufus is known to be the name of one of the first dogs that frequented the offices during the company's early years.