eBay Unveils 'Magical' AI Tool That Generates Product Descriptions from a Single Photo

Second-hand websites are a fantastic way to declutter your life while pocketing a bit of cash. However, creating a listing can be a real chore. Thankfully, eBay's latest AI tool is here to simplify the process.

On Thursday, eBay unveiled its groundbreaking image-based listing tool that harnesses AI to craft a full product description from just one photo. Imagine snapping a picture and letting AI do the heavy lifting—titles, descriptions, release dates, sub-categories, and even price and shipping suggestions are all handled for you.

This magical tool is currently available only in the eBay app for iOS users, but the company is eager to roll it out to everyone soon. The initial version of this tool transformed a user-provided title into a detailed product description, and it received glowing reviews. According to eBay's blog post, 30% of US app users tried it at least once daily, and over 95% of those who tested it opted to use the AI-generated descriptions.

The goal of these AI assistants is to break down the barriers that often deter people from listing items. It tackles what eBay calls the "cold start" problem, where new sellers feel overwhelmed by the amount of information needed to create a competitive listing. "With AI, there's no need to struggle through a cold start; as soon as you're ready to sell, your listing is ready to post," eBay stated in their blog.

As someone who's been using second-hand websites to clear out my closet for the new season, I was curious about this feature. Listing products can be tedious, so I decided to give it a try. After downloading the app and setting up an account, I snapped a photo of my trusty Hydroflask, which I always have by my side while working. I then selected the AI-automated description option, and the results were impressive.

This Hydro Flask water bottle is a reliable companion for your outdoor adventures. Made with high-quality materials, it ensures that your drink stays cold or hot for hours. It comes with a secure lid to prevent any leaks and spills, making it perfect for hikes, camping trips, or just everyday use.

With its sleek design and durable construction, this water bottle is a must-have for anyone who enjoys the great outdoors. It is available in a variety of colors and features the Hydro Flask logo on the front. Whether you're a hiker, camper, or just looking for a reliable water bottle, this Hydro Flask is sure to meet your needs.

The AI-generated text was coherent, grammatically correct, and almost indistinguishable from a professional company description. If I were actually selling my Hydroflask, I'd feel confident using this description.

eBay also introduced a seamless background-removing tool in their blog post. With just one click, it transformed my cluttered living room background into a clean, white backdrop, as shown in the hero image.

These tools truly enhance the listing experience for sellers. It's particularly exciting to see a long-standing e-commerce giant like eBay adapt its platform to incorporate the latest technology.