Curated News
By: NewsRamp Editorial Staff
October 26, 2026
AI Gift Shopping: Helper or Holiday Joy Stealer?
TLDR
- Shoppers who brainstorm their own gift ideas before consulting AI gain a strategic edge by preserving personal ownership and avoiding generic chatbot recommendations.
- Colleen Kirk of New York Institute of Technology advises using AI for specific criteria like blue wool scarves under $100, then personally adding items to cart to retain ownership.
- Using AI for everyday purchases frees up time for joyful holiday activities, while human-driven gift selection for close friends and family preserves meaningful connection.
- Naming a chatbot increases feelings of trust and connection, making shoppers more susceptible to its recommendations, according to Kirk's research on psychological ownership.
Impact - Why it Matters
As AI becomes an integral part of holiday shopping, understanding its role in gift selection is crucial. While AI can streamline purchasing and offer recommendations, over-reliance may erode the personal satisfaction and emotional connection that come from thoughtful gift-giving. This news matters because it highlights the need for a balanced approach—using AI as a tool to enhance, not replace, human creativity and personal touch. By being mindful of how we interact with AI, shoppers can preserve the joy of giving while still benefiting from technological convenience.
Summary
As the holiday season approaches, many shoppers are turning to AI chatbots like ChatGPT, Muse, Claude, and Alexa for gift ideas. According to VML’s Future Shopper report, a majority of consumers have already used AI for shopping, and more than half worldwide plan to consult AI for product recommendations this holiday season. However, Colleen Kirk, D.P.S., professor of marketing and management at New York Institute of Technology, cautions that while AI can be a helpful shopping companion, it may also diminish the joy of gift-giving if relied upon too heavily.
Kirk, who studies psychological ownership and emotional responses to AI, notes that chatbots’ human-like voices and names can foster trust and make shoppers more susceptible to their suggestions. She recommends brainstorming gift ideas independently first, then using AI to refine or check for missed options. For close friends and family, personal touches like handwritten notes or thoughtful wrapping can preserve the emotional satisfaction of giving. AI is best used for everyday purchases or gifts for acquaintances, freeing up time for more meaningful holiday activities.
Kirk is among many New York Tech faculty members applying their expertise to real-world challenges. For more information, visit nyit.edu.
Source Statement
This curated news summary relied on content distributed by NewsUSA. Read the original source here, AI Gift Shopping: Helper or Holiday Joy Stealer?
