Microsoft Extends Walmart Partnership Into Machine Learning, AI

Walmart and Microsoft have extended an existing partnership with a five-year agreement that will enable the two companies to collaborate on machine learning, artificial intelligence, and data platform solutions for a range of customer-facing services and internal business applications. This could mean teaming up on everything from Bing search ads to no-scan checkouts and predictive ordering to blockchain ledgers with help from Microsoft's partnership with EY. "Walmart's commitment to technology is centered [on] creating incredibly convenient ways for customers to shop and empowering associates to do their best work," said Doug McMillon, Walmart CEO, in a prepared statement. "Walmart is a people-led, tech-empowered company, and we're excited about what this technology partnership will bring for our customers and associates." Microsoft will help Walmart learn more about its customers, although the retailer is pretty savvy when it comes to technology. The extended partnership will also allow Walmart to outsource some of the technology development.