Wix releases AI feature enabling businesses to engage with their customers online even when they're unavailable

SaaS website builder platform, Wix, has announced the launch of the AI Site-Chat, designed to serve as a virtual agent for customers.

Businesses can use it to connect with visitors 24/7, answer their questions, and provide relevant information in real-time, even when business owners are unavailable.

By integrating with the site’s internal systems, it pulls live data from the website’s resources to deliver accurate, up-to-the-minute information. It is designed to recognise the intent behind each user query, allowing it to deliver more precise search results and tailored recommendations. 

The AI Site-Chat also helps website owners capture leads, ensuring all customer inquiries are answered. Website owners will be able to refine their offerings based on what customers are searching for.

The site-chat is fully customisable to reflect the brand voice, and can be configured with business specific restrictions or preferences, ensuring that it follows company guidelines, such as avoiding certain statements or limitations.

"Our latest AI feature, the native AI Site-Chat, provides SMBs an enterprise level tool to assist how they  interact with their website visitors," says Yaniv Ben Simon, Head of Product for AI Site-Chat at Wix.

“Businesses can seamlessly use this feature to deliver real-time, conversational customer service, sales, and support in one place, and ultimately see reduced friction, increased engagement, and improved conversions. With many more features on the horizon, we’re setting a new standard for online business interactions and success.”

The AI Site-Chat is available to Wix users in English offering free access with the option to upgrade to a premium plan for unlimited usage.

2024 RTIH INNOVATION AWARDS

Online retail was a key focus area at the sixth edition of the RTIH Innovation Awards.

The awards, sponsored by Vista Technology Support, Scala, CADS, 3D Cloud, Brightpearl by Sage’s Lightning 50, Business France, and Retail Technology Show 2025, celebrate global tech innovation in a fast moving omnichannel world.

Our 2024 hall of fame entrants were revealed during an event which took place at RIBA’s 66 Portland Place HQ in Central London on 21st November, and consisted of a drinks reception, three course meal, and awards ceremony presided over by comedian Lucy Porter.

In his welcome speech, Scott Thompson, Founder and Editor, RTIH, said: “The event is now into its sixth year and what a journey it has been. The awards started life as an online only affair during the Covid outbreak, before launching as a small scale in real life event and growing year on year to the point where we’re now selling out this fine, historic venue.”

He added: “Congratulations to all of our finalists. Many submissions did not make it through to the final stage, and getting to this point is no mean feat. Checkout-free stores, automated supply chains, immersive experiences, on-demand delivery, next generation loyalty offerings, inclusive retail, green technology. We’ve got all the cool stuff covered this evening.”

“But just importantly we’ve got lots of great examples of companies taking innovative tech and making it usable in everyday operations - resulting in more efficiency and profitability in all areas.”

Congratulations to our 2024 winners, and a big thank you to our sponsors, judging panel, the legend that is Lucy Porter, and all those who attended last month’s gathering.