From Mashable · Anna Iovine · · 40s
Walmart Denies Personalized Pricing Patents
Walmart claims it won't use patented tech to charge customers differently based on personal data.
In brief
Walmart claims it won't use patented tech to charge customers differently based on personal data. Walmart denies using AI to personalize prices despite patent applications for data collection. Originally reported by Mashable.
Walmart patents
Walmart has patented technology to collect user data like songs and credit reports.
“The Walmart Watchtower”
Dynamic pricing
Walmart denies using dynamic pricing to adjust prices based on weather or customer behavior.
“Walmart won't pursue dynamic pricing”
Sparky AI
Walmart claims Sparky AI does not upcharge customers based on their shopping habits.
“We do not use AI to upcharge our customers”
Groundwork report
Groundwork's report alleges Walmart plans to charge more based on customer needs and cart contents.
“Combined with the miles-long list of personal data it collects on shoppers”
The key point
Walmart denies using AI to personalize prices despite patent applications for data collection.
