Pinterest Visual Search Gets AI Boost - New Updates

Pinterest Enhances Visual Search Capabilities

Pinterest is implementing upgrades to its visual search functionality, introducing a suite of new features.

The company announced on Monday the rollout of improvements designed to refine the image-based search experience for its users. These enhancements include tools for more precise search narrowing and increased accessibility of visual search throughout the Pinterest platform.

Focus on Discovering Visual Preferences

Pinterest anticipates these additions will differentiate it as a search engine particularly adept at identifying items users struggle to articulate – such as a specific vibe, style, or aesthetic.

A key enhancement will provide users with deeper insight into their preferences regarding specific Pins, initially launching within the women’s fashion category in the U.S., Canada, and the U.K.

When a Pin is selected, an animated glow will appear, and Pinterest will generate descriptive words to help users understand the reasons behind their attraction to the image.

This functionality is powered by visual language models (VLMs), a type of generative AI, according to the company.

Similarities to Multimodal Search

This addition shares similarities with Google’s multimodal search, which integrates both text and images into a single search query.

However, Pinterest is proactively assisting users by generating the terms that could refine and expand their search criteria. (The company states it is utilizing “industry-leading” multimode embedding models, though specific models were not disclosed.)

Refining Fashion Searches

Another update enables users to refine fashion searches by exploring alternatives based on color, style, or fabric.

For example, Pinterest suggests users could leverage this feature to locate a similar style with a stronger “Y2K” influence, or to find an alternative to a blazer suitable for a more formal setting.

Expanded Visual Search Access

Pinterest is also broadening the availability of its visual search feature within the app.

Users will now be able to initiate a visual search by long-pressing on any Pin displayed in their Home Feed.

Addressing AI-Generated Content Concerns

This update follows an announcement regarding the labeling of AI-generated images and the forthcoming option for users to limit their exposure to such content.

These changes respond to user concerns that the proliferation of AI-generated images could diminish the authenticity and inspirational value of Pinterest.

Re-establishing Pinterest as a Visual Shopping Tool

By combining AI-driven updates with improved visual search, Pinterest aims to solidify its position as a valuable visual shopping resource that leverages AI.

The goal is to ensure AI enhances, rather than detracts from, the platform’s core functionality.