Alibaba International launches Pic Copilot AI powered e-commerce design tool tailored for SMEs in USA

Alibaba International Digital Commerce Group has announced the US launch of Pic Copilot, an artificial intelligence driven e-commerce design tool tailored for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).

This features 12 tools aimed at making tasks such as swapping image backgrounds, perfecting images and videos, conducting virtual try-ons, and generating ads a hassle free experience.

Leveraging real-life e-commerce data from Alibaba International, Pic Copilot aims to improve product imagery and videos. The application of its first two versions revealed that SMEs and key opinion leaders prioritise graphics that drive sales rather than merely focusing on aesthetics.

The latest iteration of the model is built on 250 million parameters and utilises a data annotation method centred around sales metrics. By analysing how various background elements in images influence click-through rates across 240 product categories, the AI model has been trained not only on visual appeal but also to enhance sales performance.  

The US launch introduces features such as virtual try-on tailored for multiple skin tones and body types, featuring more than 160 models across four major skin tones.

The platform allows users to upload personal images, enabling fashion entrepreneurs and KOLs to serve as models in their own product try-on photos. This feature eliminates the need of hiring professional models or conducting photoshoots.

Additionally, Pic Copilot has introduced US specific graphic theme templates tailored to national holidays and celebrations such as Independence Day, Thanksgiving, and St. Patrick’s Day.

During the Black Friday trial period, over 35,000 users worldwide leveraged Pic Copilot to create marketing materials. Black Friday related content generated by entrepreneurs and KOLs using Pic Copilot was subsequently utilised more than 200,000 times, providing average savings of over $200 per user.

Meanwhile, the virtual try-on feature assisted over 10,000 merchants in generating more than 80,000 model images, saving each merchant thousands in shooting expenses. 

Pic Copilot now offers 50 free credits to newly registered US SMEs, supporting them to refresh marketing materials for up to 15 products without any cost.

2024 RTIH INNOVATION AWARDS

AI 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.