Home / Technology / Instinct AI's New Feature Angers Users With Unsolicited Product Pitches
Instinct AI's New Feature Angers Users With Unsolicited Product Pitches
30 Sep
Summary
- Instinct AI launched a new feature called Instinct Selections for personalized recommendations.
- Users reported receiving unsolicited product suggestions, causing negative reactions.
- The company recently secured $1 billion in Series C funding, valuing it at $10 billion.

Instinct, a prominent AI startup, has introduced a new revenue-generating feature named Instinct Selections. This initiative aims to provide users with personalized recommendations across categories like dining, travel, and shopping, incorporating 'human taste' through partnerships with local experts. Founder Noah Shinn highlighted the goal of offering curated lists, differentiating from generic web-based suggestions.
However, the launch has faced immediate criticism. Several users reported receiving unexpected product recommendations, describing the experience as unwelcome and feeling spammed. Concerns were raised about the relevance and timing of these suggestions, particularly for items users had not expressed interest in.
The feature's introduction follows Instinct's recent $1 billion Series C funding round, which valued the company at $10 billion. While the company has not disclosed specific user numbers, it has indicated significant transaction volumes, with a majority related to travel, suggesting potential for commerce-driven revenue streams.
Instinct has been approached for further comment regarding the user reception and monetization plans for Instinct Selections. The company's strategy to integrate human curation aims to elevate its recommendations beyond typical AI outputs.