Latest news with #Amazon
Yahoo
7 minutes ago
- Business
- Yahoo
AI personal shoppers hunt down bargain buys
Internet giants are diving deeper into e-commerce with digital aides that know shoppers' likes, let them virtually try clothes on, hunt for deals and even place orders. The rise of virtual personal shoppers springs from generative artificial intelligence (AI) being put to work in "agents" specializing in specific tasks and given autonomy to complete them independently. "This is basically the next evolution of shopping experiences," said CFRA Research analyst Angelo Zino. Google last week unveiled shopping features built into a new "AI Mode". It can take a person's own photo and meld it with that of a skirt, shirt or other piece of clothing spotted online, showing how it will look on them. The AI adjusts the clothing size to fit, accounting for how fabrics drape, according to Google head of advertising and commerce Vidhya Srinivasan. Shoppers can then set the price they would pay and leave the AI to relentlessly browse the internet for a deal -- alerting the shopper when it finds one, and asking if it should buy using Google's payment platform. "They're taking on Amazon a little bit," Techsponential analyst Avi Greengart said of Google. The tool is also a way to make money from AI by increasing online traffic and opportunities to show ads, Greengart added. The Silicon Valley tech titan did not respond to a query regarding whether it is sharing in revenue from shopping transactions. - Bartering bots? - OpenAI added a shopping feature to ChatGPT earlier this year, enabling the chatbot to respond to requests with product suggestions, consumer reviews and links to merchant websites. Perplexity AI late last year began letting subscribers pay for online purchases without leaving its app. Amazon in April added a "Buy for Me" mode to its Rufus digital assistant, allowing users to command it to make purchases at retailer websites off Amazon's platform. Walmart head of technology Hari Vasudev recently spoke about adding an AI agent to the retail behemoth's online shopping portal, while also working with partners to make sure their digital agents keep Walmart products in mind. Global payment networks Visa and Mastercard in April each said their technical systems were modernized to allow payment transactions by digital agents. "As AI agents start to take over the bulk of product discovery and the decision-making process, retailers must consider how to optimize for this new layer of AI shoppers," said Elise Watson of Clarkston Consulting. Retailers are likely to be left groping in the dark when it comes to what makes a product attractive to AI agents, according to Watson. - Knowing the customer - Analyst Zino does not expect AI shoppers to cause an e-commerce industry upheaval, but he does see the technology benefitting Google and Meta. Not only do the Internet rivals have massive amounts of data about their users, but they are also among frontrunners in the AI race. "They probably have more information on the consumer than anyone else out there," Zino said of Google and Meta. Tech company access to data about users hits the hot-button issue of online privacy and who should control personal information. Google plans to refine consumer profiles based on what people search for and promises that shoppers will need to authorize access to additional information such as email or app use. Trusting a chatbot with one's buying decisions may spook some people, and while the technology might be in place the legal and ethical framework for it is not. "The agent economy is here," said PSE Consulting managing director Chris Jones. "The next phase of e-commerce will depend on whether we can trust machines to buy on our behalf." tu/gc/st
Forbes
10 minutes ago
- Business
- Forbes
9 Fully Remote Jobs Hiring Now That Pay Up To $249,000 In 2025
The most popular remote jobs right now are in tech, finance, and healthcare Finding a fully remote job is becoming a real challenge in 2025. More companies are adopting a hybrid stance or opting for some form of in-person flexibility. The year kicked off with federal workers being mandated to work fully from the office, while workers at companies like Amazon and Dell saw a full-on five-days-a-week commute to work. As a job-seeker, it can be disheartening especially if your circumstances do not permit you to work from the office at all, making remote work not just a nice-to-have, but an actual necessity. Thankfully, recent research from FlexJobs confirms that there are three industries which have witnessed a strong hiring surge in fully remote jobs--yes, that literally means work from home in every sense of the word. These industries were identified through analyzing 60 career categories and more than 60,000 employers in the FlexJobs database, from January to April 2025. Quick observation: Most of the roles listed pay in the region of $80,000 and up, and one of them pays as much as $249,000 annually. The two lowest-paying roles cited below are therapist and accountant. But there's even more good news. FlexJobs research reveals that computer and IT remote jobs maintained the same hiring pace as before, with no signs of slowing down, as it continues to 'show some of the highest shares of fully remote work opportunities. Additionally, remote finance and healthcare job listings grew by 13% and 10%, respectively, while fully remote job opportunities grew by 10%' their findings, shared via email, states. To help increase your chances of success, here are some tips when applying for each of these remote-friendly industries: For tech-related work-from-home roles, be sure to highlight your 'soft' skills, also known as power skills or human skills, because they're just as essential to your career and job search success as are technical or hard skills. Highlight competencies such as asynchronous communication skills, your ability to translate complex concepts and relay ideas and progress to non-technical stakeholders, and critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Also remember to show what you're capable of, not just tell. Your resume can only display so much of your wealth of expertise, so you need to use digital platforms to bring your resume to life. You do this through creating an online portfolio of apps developed and regularly posting updates sharing your knowledge, thought leadership, and step-by-step guides (which you can even make money from) on platforms like LinkedIn and YouTube. If applying for a remote position withing the financial industry, be sure to highlight your experience providing virtual advice or collaborating with teams while working remotely. Also be sure to point out any training, experience, and recent certifications you have with finance and accounting tools and software, including proficiency level or how many years you've acquired working knowledge. Also don't forget to quantify your wins and include metrics that show off just how exceptional of a candidate you are. One of the biggest boosts to remote work within the medical sector is the rise in popularity of telehealth technology. 'This trend is largely driven by technological advancements, particularly in telehealth, which has enabled healthcare organizations to scale remote service offerings like never before," says John Mullinix, director of growth marketing at Ladders (a job board for high-paying roles over $100,000). 'Mental health, primary care, and even some nurse practitioner roles have seen significant remote expansion, making high-paying medical jobs more accessible outside traditional clinical settings,' he commented. So when you're looking for remote jobs within healthcare, be sure that you emphasize your experience and hands-on knowledge of using HIPAA-compliant platforms, and any extra relevant training you may have undertaken to boost your resume, such as the Certificate in Telehealth Practice from the Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences (this course is so popular that there is currently a waiting list to join). If you know where to look and can tangibly speak directly to their business needs, you'll find it much easier to secure remote work. Companies are hiring right now, predominantly in tech, finance, and healthcare. These are the most popular industries for work-from-home opportunities currently, and that means you might need to consider shifting your job search strategy and making a slight career rebranding, or even a career pivot if remote work is very high of a priority to you. To stand out when applying for remote jobs, focus on your digital presence, upskilling, and ... More competency with remote collaboration Go ahead and update your resume, refresh your digital presence, and start showing up in a way that aligns you for remote jobs and positions you as a digitally-savvy candidate.
Hindustan Times
31 minutes ago
- Hindustan Times
Best 5 star windows AC in 2025: Top 7 options for superior cooling and long term savings
When it comes to beating the heat, efficiency and performance go hand in hand. A 5-star window AC offers the perfect balance, delivering powerful cooling while minimizing energy consumption. This means you stay comfortable without worrying about soaring electricity bills. In this guide, we explore the top 5-star window ACs of 2025, highlighting models that combine advanced technology, quiet operation, and durability. Whether you need a compact unit for a small room or a robust cooler for larger spaces, our curated list will help you make an informed choice. The Voltas 1.5 Ton 5 Star Window AC is a powerful and energy-efficient solution for medium-sized rooms. With an inverter compressor and copper condenser, it offers fast cooling and durability. The AC features a 2-in-1 adjustable mode, anti-freeze thermostat, and multiple comfort modes, ensuring optimal performance in varying temperatures. Additional highlights include an LED temperature display, anti-rust coating, and ultra-silent operation. The AC is easy to install and maintain, making it a reliable choice for Indian summers. Its 5-star rating ensures low energy consumption, keeping your bills in check. Excellent energy efficiency and fast cooling Durable copper condenser with anti-rust coating Slightly bulky design Noise level (56 dB) may be high for some users Voltas 1.5 Ton 5 Star, 2-in-1 Adjustable Mode Window AC (Copper Condenser, Inverter Compressor, Anti-Freeze Thermostat, WAC 185V Vertis Elite A, White) What are buyers saying on Amazon? Cooling, noise, and installation get mixed feedback. Some report compressor failure and poor build. Energy efficiency and cost-effectiveness are appreciated. Why choose this product? Consider for its energy savings and affordability. Be cautious of durability and inconsistent cooling performance based on user reviews. This Blue Star 1.5 Ton 5 Star Inverter Window AC is designed for medium-sized rooms, offering robust cooling with a rotary compressor and copper condenser. It features Turbo Cool, 2D swing, and multiple fan modes for personalized comfort. The hydrophilic blue fins enhance durability and prevent corrosion. The AC's energy-saving features, self-diagnosis, and night glow remote buttons add convenience. With a 5-star rating, it ensures low power consumption. The warranty on the compressor is among the best in the segment, ensuring peace of mind. Turbo cooling and multiple fan modes Long compressor warranty (80 months) Slightly heavier than competitors Remote may feel basic Blue Star 1.5 Ton 5 Star Inverter Window AC (Copper, Turbo Cool, Fan Modes-Auto/High/Medium/Low, Hydrophilic Blue Fins, Dust Filters, Self-Diagnosis, WID518L, White) What are buyers saying on Amazon? Great cooling and value for money, but many report failures within days. High noise and poor remote also disappoint users. Installation feedback is mixed. Why choose this product? Strong cooling at a budget-friendly price, though reliability issues and noisy operation may be a concern for long-term satisfaction. This Blue Star Window AC brings efficient cooling and low maintenance with its copper condenser and inverter compressor. Suited for small to medium rooms, it provides reliable performance with energy savings. The dust filter ensures clean air, and the eco-friendly R32 refrigerant is a plus. The AC is easy to install and offers a straightforward user experience. While it lacks some advanced features, it covers the basics well and comes with a standard warranty for peace of mind. Reliable cooling with low maintenance Eco-friendly refrigerant Lacks advanced features like turbo mode Basic remote and controls Blue Star 1.5 Ton 5 Star Inverter Window AC (Copper Condenser, Dust Filter, WIB518LN) What are buyers saying on Amazon? Timely delivery and decent cooling for some, but many face gas leaks, poor after-sales service, and extremely loud noise issues. Why choose this product? Blue Star ACs may offer good energy efficiency and fast delivery, but frequent complaints about defects, poor cooling, and bad service are major red flags. The Blue Star WIA518GN Window AC stands out with its turbo cooling, energy saver mode, and anti-bacterial filter. The inverter compressor ensures efficient operation, while the copper condenser and hydrophilic blue fins provide durability against corrosion. Features like auto-restart with memory, self-diagnosis, and stabilizer-free operation add to user convenience. The AC is ideal for medium rooms and offers robust cooling even in high ambient temperatures. However, its design and weight may not suit all window types. Turbo cool and energy saver modes Anti-bacterial filter for cleaner air Bulky and heavy May require professional installation Blue Star 1.5 Ton 5 Star Inverter Window AC (Copper, Turbo Cool, Humidity Control, Hydrophilic Blue Fins, Dust Filters, Self-Diagnosis, WIA518GN, White) What are buyers saying on Amazon? Praised for low noise, strong cooling, and value for money. However, some buyers find it overpriced on Amazon compared to offline stores. Why choose this product? Offers good performance and quiet operation. If purchased at the right price, it's a satisfying and cost-effective cooling solution. Haier's 1.5 Ton 5 Star Twin Inverter Window AC is engineered for high performance, even at 54°C. The twin inverter compressor and grooved copper coils ensure fast, efficient cooling with long-term durability. The AC features turbo mode, super micro antibacterial filter, and anti-corrosive coating for added protection. With a 5-star rating and ISEER of 3.9, it offers significant energy savings. The AC's long air throw and comprehensive warranty make it a strong contender for Indian summers, though it's heavier than some rivals. Twin inverter for fast, efficient cooling Works efficiently even at 54°C Heavier than most Slightly higher energy consumption Haier 1.5 Ton 5 Star Twin Inverter Side Flow Window AC (Copper, Turbo Mode, Anti Bacterial Filter, Cools at 54°C Temp, Long Air Throw - HWU18I-AOW5BN-INV,White) What are buyers saying on Amazon? Customers praise the air conditioner's powerful cooling, low noise, and energy efficiency. It's seen as a value-for-money option with clear display features and solid performance. Why choose this product? Ideal for consistent, quiet cooling with smart temperature control. While most users are highly satisfied, be mindful of possible delivery mishandling and ensure proper installation for optimal performance. The Hitachi RAW518HHEO Window Inverter AC offers 100% copper condenser and precoated aluminum fins for enhanced durability and efficient cooling. It is designed for medium rooms and can maintain 100% cooling at 43°C. The AC features auto restart, wireless LCD remote, and defrosting sensor for user convenience. With a 5-star rating, it ensures energy savings and comes with an impressive warranty package. The expandable inverter adapts to varying loads, making it suitable for fluctuating temperatures. However, its design is somewhat traditional. Excellent warranty and energy efficiency 100% copper condenser with precoated fins Traditional design Heavier unit Hitachi 1.5 Ton Class 5 Star, Window Inverter AC (100% Copper, 100% cooling at 43 degree Celsius, RAW518HHEO, White) What are buyers saying on Amazon? Buyers praise fast cooling within 5 minutes, though some mention unsatisfactory cooling efficiency in certain cases. Why choose this product? Efficient cooling and quick performance make it ideal, but check reviews due to occasional inconsistency in cooling results. Carrier's 1.5 Ton 5 Star Window Inverter AC features Flexicool convertible 4-in-1 technology, allowing users to adjust cooling capacity and save energy. The 100% copper condenser with Aqua Clear protection ensures durability and low maintenance. Turbo Cool and HD filter provide fast cooling and clean air. The AC is suitable for medium rooms and offers multiple smart features like refrigerant leakage detector and auto cleanser. While it's wide and may not fit all windows, its versatility and energy savings make it a great choice. Convertible 4-in-1 cooling and energy savings Durable copper condenser with extra protection Wide design may not fit all windows Slightly complex controls for new users Carrier 1.5Ton 5 Star Copper, Dust Filter & Turbo Mode Window Inverter Air Conditioner(CARRIER WIN Air Conditioner 18K ESTRELLA EXI 5 STAR, White) What are buyers saying on Amazon? Buyers find the AC good value, but many complain about poor cooling and after-sales service. Why choose this product? Affordable and effective for some, but others warn of bad service and defective units. A 5-star window AC uses advanced technology to deliver superior cooling with less electricity, resulting in lower energy bills and long-term savings compared to 3-star or 4-star models. Selecting the correct capacity depends on your room size. An undersized AC won't cool efficiently, while an oversized one wastes energy. Always match the BTU rating to your room's square footage for optimal performance. Modern 5-star window ACs often include features like smart controls, auto-restart, air filters, and quiet operation, providing enhanced comfort, convenience, and healthier indoor air quality 5 star window ac Capacity Energy Rating Condenser Type Similar articles for you Split AC vs window AC: A detailed comparison to help you choose the best cooling option; top picks to buy Best 1.5 ton window ACs in April 2025 that provide sufficient cooling in small to medium sized rooms Best window AC: Top 10 choices for high-performance cooling, energy efficiency and advanced filters Split ACs vs window ACs vs portable ACs: Hidden truths no one tells you before buying an AC - but we've got you covered Best window ACs: Top 10 options to beat the heatwave with energy-efficient cooling and ultimate comfort this summer It indicates high energy efficiency, helping reduce electricity bills while providing effective cooling. Match the AC's cooling capacity (BTU) to your room size for optimal performance. They may cost more initially but save money long-term through lower energy consumption. Basic installation is possible, but professional help is recommended for best results. Yes, many include smart controls, air purifiers, and noise reduction technology. Disclaimer: At Hindustan Times, we help you stay up-to-date with the latest trends and products. Hindustan Times has an affiliate partnership, so we may get a part of the revenue when you make a purchase. We shall not be liable for any claim under applicable laws, including but not limited to the Consumer Protection Act, 2019, with respect to the products. The products listed in this article are in no particular order of priority.
Yahoo
44 minutes ago
- General
- Yahoo
Meet your match: Here are the best loungewear duos to shop at Amazon this season
Listen, I love a matching set no matter the season, but I have to admit that my favorite cozy styles can get a bit too toasty for spring and summer. Now that temperatures are starting to rise, I'm scooping up a few sets in lighter, more breathable materials and silhouettes so I can keep cool. These dynamic duos are a foolproof fashion solution any time of year. They look fantastic together but, taken separately, give so many mix-and-match options to pair with other pieces in your best of all, you don't have to hunt high and low to find affordable options. Amazon's got a ton of cute, coordinating sets that are just right for spring and summer. Below are my top 11 picks, ranging from chic lightweight knits and comfy, short-sleeved sweatsuits to sets that show off some (but not too much) leg. And are you ready for me to blow your bargain-loving mind? Everything on this list is under $50, so you may want to snap up more than one — I know I will! Related: 10 flattering editor-recommended dresses you'll want to wear all summer long If you have Amazon Prime, you'll get free shipping, of course. Not yet a member? No problem. You can sign up for your free 30-day trial here. (And by the way, those without Prime still get free shipping on orders of $35 or more.) The reviews quoted above reflect the most recent versions at the time of publication.
Yahoo
an hour ago
- Business
- Yahoo
Nike (NKE) Returns to Amazon to Rekindle Old Fortunes
Nike Inc. (NKE), one of the world's leading footwear brands, has reported year-over-year sales declines for four consecutive quarters, prompting concerns about its long-term growth sustainability. In response, the company announced a two-pronged strategy on May 22: resuming direct sales through Amazon and implementing targeted price increases to enhance profit margins. Easily unpack a company's performance with TipRanks' new KPI Data for smart investment decisions Receive undervalued, market resilient stocks right to your inbox with TipRanks' Smart Value Newsletter While these initiatives may provide near-term support, I maintain a bearish outlook on Nike's stock, as I believe the current valuation does not fully reflect the key risks the company continues to face. Although I am bearish on Nike, I believe the decision to sell directly on Amazon in the U.S. will help the footwear giant's sales in the short term. A survey conducted by AlixPartners and Footwear Distributors & Retailers of America in 2024 found that more than a third of consumers start their footwear search on Amazon. Nike's return to Amazon is likely to be completed before the end of this month. In line with the partnership terms, Amazon has notified third-party sellers that they will not be allowed to sell certain Nike products, starting on July 19. Over the past five years, many of Nike's direct competitors have maintained a strong presence on Amazon, while Nike's absence from the platform has contributed to market share losses. Looking ahead, Nike's renewed partnership with Amazon should improve its competitive positioning. Selling directly on Amazon also allows Nike greater control over its brand presentation, mitigating the negative impact of third-party sellers who have shaped the brand's image on the platform, often to its detriment. Moreover, leveraging Amazon's extensive U.S. reach—estimated at approximately 230 million active users—could help Nike strengthen its market presence and build a more resilient business profile. That said, investors should be mindful of potential risks associated with this strategy. Chief among them is margin pressure, as Amazon's seller fees could weigh on Nike's profitability. There is also a risk of channel cannibalization; a stronger presence on Amazon could divert traffic away from Nike's e-commerce platform. If that occurs, Nike may lose valuable direct-to-consumer data, which could hinder the effectiveness of its marketing and customer engagement efforts over the long term. As part of its strategy to reignite growth, Nike plans to implement selective price increases across certain product categories. According to multiple media sources, footwear priced above $150 will see a $10 increase, while those in the $100–$150 range will rise by $5. Adult apparel is also expected to see price adjustments ranging from $2 to $10, depending on the retail price. Notably, Nike will exempt several key categories from these hikes, including Air Force 1 sneakers, children's footwear, Michael Jordan-branded apparel, and all items priced under $100. This approach indicates that Nike strategically targets product segments with relatively low price elasticity, where stable sales volumes are likely to sustain revenue growth despite higher prices. The planned price increases appear justified in light of anticipated import cost pressures stemming from new tariffs. The degree to which these hikes will bolster gross margins depends largely on the company's ability to maintain stable sales volumes and the overall economic impact of the tariffs. Nike's gross margins have faced downward pressure in recent years, falling to 41.5% in Q3 FY2025 from 46% in FY2022. Key factors contributing to this decline include increased inventory write-downs, higher discounting to attract customers to Nike's direct-to-consumer channels, such as its website, and rising input costs. In theory, Nike's targeted price increases could enhance gross margins, provided sales volumes remain stable or decline only slightly. However, the implementation of new tariffs presents significant challenges to this strategy. According to UBS estimates, proposed tariffs on imports from Vietnam, which account for nearly half of Nike's footwear production, would necessitate substantially larger price hikes for the company to preserve its gross margin levels. Conversely, Morningstar analysts suggest that raising prices by more than 10% could severely impact sales volumes, making such increases difficult to sustain without compromising demand. On Wall Street, NKE stock carries a Moderate Buy consensus rating based on 14 Buy, 15 Hold, and zero Sell ratings over the past three months. NKE's average stock price target of $76.75 implies approximately 28% upside potential over the next twelve months. Notably, several analysts who have recently expressed caution on Nike's stock appear encouraged by the company's decision to re-enter the Amazon marketplace. For example, Morgan Stanley analyst Alexandra Straton highlighted that direct sales on Amazon represent a clear positive, potentially adding $300 million to $500 million in incremental annual revenue. Similarly, HSBC analyst Erwan Rambourg views Nike's return to Amazon as a favorable catalyst, though he expressed concerns regarding the company's innovation pipeline. Analysts Sam Poser of Williams Trading and Brian Nagel of Oppenheimer also support this strategic move. While Nike's return to Amazon is a positive development, I remain cautious on the stock due to its elevated valuation, with a forward P/E exceeding 28. Although the company's five-year average forward P/E is around 31, this period included above-average growth, such as the 19% year-over-year revenue increase in Fiscal 2021, driven by post-pandemic recovery. Given the recent decline in revenue, I anticipate a potential valuation re-rating in the near term. Nike's decision to resume direct sales on Amazon in the U.S. is a strategic move likely to enhance short-term revenue. However, planned price increases may not translate into margin expansion, as the company faces rising import tariffs alongside the risk of reduced sales volumes. Given its current elevated valuation, Nike offers a limited margin of safety for investors. Disclaimer & DisclosureReport an Issue Error while retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error while retrieving data Error while retrieving data Error while retrieving data Error while retrieving data
