Walmart CEO reportedly brags that company's in-app AI agent is making people spend 35% more money

Photo Credit: iStock Walmart's in-app AI assistant, Sparky, is making waves after the company's CEO revealed its impact. What's happening? During a fourth-quarter earnings call, Walmart's new CEO, John Furner, said that customers who use Sparky spend approximately 35% more than those who do not use the artificial intelligence agent, according to Modern Retail. Walmart's CEO is bragging that Sparky, the company's in-app AI agent, is leading people to spend 35% more.He told investors that Sparky gives them a better ability to understand their customers.This comes as Walmart patents tech that allows for more dynamic pricing.— More Perfect Union (@MorePerfectUS) March 27, 2026 David Guggina, the president and CEO of Walmart U.S., mentioned during the call that the tool, which is now used by about half of Walmart app users, "is essentially helping us evolve from traditional search to intent-driven commerce." Furner highlighted Sparky's ability to assist consumers in locating the products they need and provide insights into their lifestyles. He also noted that it offers additional benefits by better understanding individuals' preferences based on their behaviors. Why is this concerning? While Walmart execs are celebrating this efficacy, Sparky is not without its critics. In response to the 35% increased spending claim, one commenter on X noted: "It's called price gouging and investors LOVE it because it increases profits. Taking from all of us to further enrich the rich. It's a ...