Etsy to bring AI into its search with latest acquisition

Etsy’s looking to make the online shopping on its platform just a bit easier with its latest purchase. The design and craft marketplace bought Blackbird Technologies, a startup that specializes in developing algorithms that can help Etsy boost its search feature. The acquisition could bring things like natural language processing, analytics, and image recognition.

Financial terms of the deal haven’t been disclosed but all members of the team (a lean 10 people) will be coming onboard to Etsy. And since Etsy will be using their tech, any clients they may have won’t get access to the API anymore. This new purchase can also help keep its competitors at bay and give a better experience for its shoppers.

Source: TechCrunch

Etsy lets you know where the local artisans are on your mobile

Etsy's finally bringing its Local service to mobile with its latest update. The online shopping platform for artisans can now help you find sellers in your area. This was previously only available through the browser. The feature on mobile shows you a map of your area dotted with Etsy sellers that are available, those who plan to sell in the future, or those who have sold in the recent past. It shows hours of operation, images of the available items, etc. These sellers can even add if they're part of any craft fairs or special events in the area. Retail members of Etsy Wholesale can even have their physical stores added to Etsy Local. 

The app can also recommend to you retailers based on your taste, previously visited shops, and those you liked or purchased from before. The app can even help you discover new places as well by letting you view the local boutiques that carry Etsy merchandise. 

Source: Etsy | Via: The Next Web | Download: Google Play Store (Free) + Apple iTunes App Store (Free)