This article was published on September 11, 2024
Second-hand style is getting a machine learning makeover
Fashion app Depop has unveiled new AI gear from the firm’s tech wardrobe. The second-hand marketplace can now generate an entire listing from a single photo.
Launched today, the feature is designed to accelerate the listing process . All users need to do is upload their image and hit “Generate Description.”
Image recognition and GenAI will then create the listing description. The system will also add various item attributes, from category to colour and brand. Every detail will incorporate Depop’s trademark tone, hashtags, and visuals.
The new feature joins an array of algorithmic enhancements on the platform.
The latest rumblings from the EU tech scene, a story from our wise ol' founder Boris, and some questionable AI art. It's free, every week, in your inbox. Sign up now!
Last month, TNW revealed that Depop is working with an AI startup to analyse trends. The British government has provided funding for the project.
Depop has also integrated language and vision models in the platform’s listings, search, and recommendations.
Rafe Colburn, the company’s chief technology and product officer, told TNW that Depop now uses AI and machine learning “across our marketplace.”
“Resale inventory is typically made up of unstructured, user-generated content,” he said. “AI enables us to address that and close the gap with retail, by providing us ways to understand and present products that were once only available to traditional retailers.”
Colburn hopes the tech can also drive a shift in consumer behaviour: choosing resale over retail.
Thomas is the managing editor of TNW. He leads our coverage of European tech and oversees our talented team of writers. Away from work, he e (show all) Thomas is the managing editor of TNW. He leads our coverage of European tech and oversees our talented team of writers. Away from work, he enjoys playing chess (badly) and the guitar (even worse).