Walmart unveils AI assistant 'Sparky'
The AI assistant offers contextual recommendations based on events, preferences, and situational needs.
Walmart is stepping into the future of retail with the launch of Sparky, a generative AI assistant designed to simplify and personalize the way customers shop. Officially introduced on June 6, 2025, Sparky is now integrated into the Walmart app, helping users find, compare, and purchase items with greater confidence and ease.
Activated via the new “Ask Sparky” button, the AI assistant offers contextual recommendations based on events, preferences, and situational needs. Whether helping customers pick a beach outfit by checking local weather, or suggesting a jersey based on that evening’s sports games, Sparky aims to go beyond standard product search.
Built on generative AI, Sparky can synthesize reviews, summarize product descriptions, and guide decision-making with side-by-side comparisons. Walmart envisions the assistant as a long-term companion rather than a one-off feature. Future capabilities include support for multimodal inputs as well as automated reordering of essentials, service booking, and even planning everyday tasks like dinner menus or household repairs.
“Sparky is designed not just to answer questions but to act as a trusted partner,” said Desiree Gosby, Walmart’s Senior Vice President of Tech Strategy and Emerging Tech. The assistant will eventually handle full event planning, offering customers coordinated ideas for parties or meals.
The move reflects Walmart’s ongoing investment in artificial intelligence as a strategic driver of its customer experience. Sparky joins a growing suite of AI tools in Walmart’s digital ecosystem, including AI-enhanced search, review summaries, and product comparison features.
