Vector search is one of the recent e-commerce search buzzwords that you, as a business owner, should know and apply to your business.

Vector search can reshape how users navigate and discover products on your e-shop.

It fully replaces the traditional keyword-based search and unlocks new opportunities for online shoppers to find more relevant product offerings.

So, what is a vector search, and how does it work?

Vector search exploits machine learning to convert text and images into vectors (numerical representations).

It identifies comparable data through the algorithms for approximate nearest neighbors (ANN). In other words, it measures similarity with other products and suggests the most query-matching ones.

Traditional (or keyword) search looks for product titles and descriptions that match the exact user-entered query. It often leads to zero results, especially when the query wording does not align perfectly with product descriptions.

In contrast, vector search exploits numerical representations (vectors) of text or images. Different from traditional search, it enables the measurement of semantic similarity and understands contextual meaning.

How does it work?

Imagine seeking inspiration for a home office setup and receiving tailored suggestions such as ergonomic chairs, stylish desks, ambient lighting, and organizational accessories.

You can instantly add these products to a shopping cart and proceed to a new home office setup purchase.

This seamless experience is made possible by vector search.

How?

At the core of vector search lies the Word2Vec technique, transforming text and images into vectors.

Word2vec, equipped with machine learning and semantic search, deeply understands user queries and matches them with products based on nuanced semantic connections.

How can you use vector search in your e-commerce business?

Whether it’s spotting a unique lamp or a striking piece of furniture in a magazine, AI-driven e-commerce search tools like LupaSearch enable users to upload photos for a seamless search experience.

The vector search then extracts specific product attributes, from colors and materials to unique design elements, eliminating the need for written product descriptions.

That means the picture is enough for the search algorithm to find a matching product.

Search for products with no descriptions

For those businesses that do not provide lengthy product descriptions, vector search becomes a game-changer.

It deciphers information from product images, even if there is no accompanying text, offering users precise and query-matching product recommendations.

Search for products in multiple categories

Vector search goes beyond single-category exploration.

It navigates through distinct product categories, complementing the faceted search. Imagine searching for “smart home essentials” and having the search engine automatically filter products based on connectivity, compatibility, and functionality.

Boosted e-commerce business revenue and more

Vector search can drastically change your e-commerce search usability and boost conversion rates.

As a business owner, you do not need to write compelling and detailed product descriptions for your search engine to match the products with the user queries.

Offer flexibility and a high search intuitiveness level and unlock the search experience that even the most picky online shoppers find delightful.

LupaSearch helps e-commerce businesses set a new mark for an e-shop that feels good to shop at.

Drop us a message, get a free product demo, and let’s hit new revenue record months from e-commerce search together.