AI Startup Instinct Faces User Pushback Over Unsolicited Product Recommendations
· Technology · TechCrunch, Indian Express
The AI startup Instinct has introduced a new feature called Instinct Selections designed to curate personalized product lists in areas such as dining, travel, and shopping. Founder Noah Shinn announced that the feature partners with local human experts, including chefs and architects, to provide recommendations beyond standard web data. However, the rollout has drawn criticism from users who received unsolicited product suggestions in their feeds. Several entrepreneurs and investors expressed frustration on X, noting that the automated product pushes felt intrusive and resembled targeted advertisements. The feature currently operates by generating suggestions based on user data and upcoming trips without explicit requests.
Why it matters
This feature rollout highlights the tension user-facing AI agents face as companies attempt to monetize assistants through commercial recommendations without alienating their user base.
Read the original report — TechCrunch
Join us on Telegram
Breaking news the moment it lands. At 10,000 members we ship the Android app.