You may have noticed Google added a new feature for mobile devices making it easier to buy things. You know how sometimes when you Google something, a sub category of search results called “Shop on Google” will show up? Well, according to Google, 1 in 5 people swipe through the options, indicating a possible desire to buy. As of August 2015, it’s much easier to do so. A swipe automatically provides more information and a custom buying page.
On the one hand, this technology empowers the consumer: we get more information now. But on the other hand, is the encouragement of impulsivity limiting our freedom to make thoughtful, well-informed choices?
The innovation aims to gain footing in the battle for what the company calls “micro-moments” – those fractions of a second between the time we’re researching the best running shoe and the decision to buy one.
