Core Viewpoint - The article discusses how AI agents can empower retail operations and the challenges faced by retailers in adopting these technologies, emphasizing the need for improved customer experience, operational efficiency, and decision-making insights. Group 1: AI Agent Capabilities - AI agents can autonomously execute complex multi-task workflows across various business operations, enhancing customer experience and operational efficiency [3][4] - Retail AI agents evolve existing retail software, enabling tasks such as automated online shopping processes without human intervention [3][4] Group 2: Addressing Retail Challenges - Retailers face key challenges including the growing demand for enhanced customer experience, insufficient internal operational efficiency, and a lack of competitive insights [3][6] - Integrating AI agents into retail software can specifically address these challenges by improving customer experience, increasing operational efficiency, and providing data-driven insights [3][5][6] Group 3: AI Agent Applications - Common applications of AI agents in retail include cash register systems, inventory management, ERP systems, CRM systems, e-commerce platforms, order management systems, and business intelligence tools [7][8] - AI agents can enhance functionalities such as fraud detection, personalized marketing, and customer interaction, thereby improving overall sales and operational efficiency [7][8] Group 4: Development Approaches for AI Agents - There are five main paths to integrate AI agents into retail systems: in-house development, outsourcing, hybrid models, purchasing pre-built solutions, and adopting AI as a Service (AIaaS) [9][10] - Each approach has its own advantages and challenges, such as cost, control over development, and integration risks [11][17][20][25][28] Group 5: Future Trends - The retail and e-commerce sectors are expected to see explosive growth in AI agent technology over the next 5-10 years, with advancements in autonomous decision-making and automation capabilities [33] - The shift towards highly personalized AI agents will enhance customer experiences, while the proliferation of self-service terminals and AR technology will reshape the retail landscape [33]