eCommerce

Google announced plans to utilize generative AI to optimize Search ads’ relevance for better user experience.

Google unveils Product Studio, a new AI-driven tool that enables merchants to generate custom product imagery with ease.

Luca, a retail pricing optimization startup backed by Y Combinator, has secured $2.5 million in seed funding from investors like Menlo Ventures, Soma Capital, and angel investors. Leveraging AI and data analytics, Luca plans to transform traditional retail pricing strategies and improve overall business outcomes.

China's digital currency, e-CNY, takes a significant step forward on the WeChat platform, which now supports transactions on its short video and mini-app features. The digital yuan aims to complement, rather than compete with, digital payment giants WeChat Pay and Alipay.

YouTube's ad revenue falls 2.6% YoY, marking the third consecutive quarter of decline.

E-commerce platform Rally secures $12 million in Series A funding and aspires for an innovative approach to e-commerce checkout solutions.

Global payment gateway Square announces the expansion of its Tap to Pay service to Android devices in the UK, emphasizing security and simplicity for small-scale companies and pop-ups.

Get more out of your Google Play Store experience by making use of the underutilized Play Points feature, now providing rewards for more items, including real-world products.

Apple now enables iPhone users with the Apple Card to open a high-yield savings account managed by Goldman Sachs, boasting a 4.15% APY. Seamlessly integrating with Daily Cash rewards, Apple aims to improve users' financial health.

San Francisco startup Kindred secures $15M in Series A funding to expand its members-only home-swapping network, offering more affordable travel options and a unique lodging experience for users.

U.K. based credit card startup Yonder has raised £12.5 M ($15.4 M) in an equity round to fuel their global expansion strategy.

Google is reported to be working on using generative AI for creating ad campaigns automatically. This technology utilizes limited input material to generate complete ads in different variations, specifically targeting audiences or goals.

GoDaddy has integrated Tap to Pay on iPhone technology, making mobile payments easier for US-based merchants without the need for additional POS systems. The collaboration enables businesses to accept various contactless payment methods, including contactless debit and credit cards, Apple Pay, and other digital wallets.

Odeko, a company providing supply chain management tools to independent coffee shops and cafés, raises $53 million in Series D funding.

French startup Fleet has expanded from renting out MacBooks to providing a wide range of workplace solutions, including smartphones, tablets, accessories, and furniture.

Apple Pay Later finally rolls out to selected users in 45 US states, allowing loans for eligible customers from $50 to $1,000. The service, which was initially planned for a September 2022 launch alongside iOS 16, faced several delays due to technical setbacks.

Samsung and Huawei encounter a decrease in the Android market shares, while Chinese smartphone manufacturers Oppo and Vivo gain momentum.

Kontent.ai announces a $40 million investment from Expedition Growth Capital for expansion and product development. Having gained traction among customers such as the University of Oxford and Anaplan, Kontent.ai stands out in the headless CMS software sector, predicted to be valued at $1.6 billion by 2027.

Jotform Store Builder allows small businesses to easily build online stores in minutes. This no-code platform offers extensive customization options, 25+ payment gateways, and advanced sharing capabilities, catering to a wide range of industries beyond retail businesses.

Eager to optimize conversational commerce, Walmart purchases Botmock, providing design tools for chatbot prototypes, rapid testing, and application deployment.

Shogun, initially a side project by co-founders Finbarr Taylor and Nick Raushenbush, has evolved into a powerful platform for small businesses to create visually appealing online storefronts. Helping non-technical users with customization, the solution plugs into Shopify and other eCommerce services. Now part of Y Combinator's 2018 winter class, Shogun is set to grow and expand beyond Shopify.