Listed foodtech platform Zomato is venturing into the realm of generative AI following the recent launch of Blinkit’s generative AI-based product. According to sources, Zomato is actively hiring for machine learning (ML), data science, and natural language processing (NLP) roles to develop generative AI-based products.
To lead these initiatives, Zomato has appointed a head of AI product development. The company aims to incorporate AI into various customer-facing features such as search engines and notifications, as well as backend tools like product photography and customer support.
Both Zomato and Blinkit will leverage the generative AI tools developed. Zomato has reportedly collaborated with tech giants like Google, Adobe, OpenAI, and Microsoft for its AI product development.
A Zomato spokesperson confirmed the company’s foray into generative AI. They highlighted Zomato’s neural networks that predict food preparation and delivery time, while Blinkit uses machine learning to optimize supply-chain costs and reduce delivery times. The spokesperson also mentioned that Blinkit’s app now offers unlimited recipes and ingredient suggestions through generative AI.
Zomato and Blinkit have been actively hiring engineers with machine learning skills over the past few years.
This move aligns with the broader trend of Indian startups exploring generative AI-based products. For instance, edtech decacorn BYJU’S recently launched three generative AI-powered products. Similarly, online travel agency MakeMyTrip expressed its intention to develop core capabilities using generative AI and collaborate with industry players in this domain.
Generative AI models like OpenAI’s ChatGPT, Midjourney’s image generation engine, and Google’s BARD have gained popularity due to their ability to answer complex questions, generate code, and create content using large language models. While challenges such as hallucinations persist, generative AI models have found diverse applications within a short span of time.
Zomato’s exploration of generative AI reflects the company’s commitment to leveraging cutting-edge technologies to enhance its food delivery platform and improve user experiences.
