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How One Australian Woman is Using AI to Save Thousands on Online Shopping
In the face of the ongoing cost-of-living crisis, many Australians are turning to innovative methods to stretch their dollars further. One standout approach comes from Andie McDonald, a Gold Coast resident who has found a unique way to maximise savings through the use of artificial intelligence.
The Power of ChatGPT in Online Shopping
McDonald has been leveraging ChatGPT to uncover discount codes while shopping online. Sharing her experience with Yahoo Finance, she revealed her journey of integrating AI into various aspects of her life, particularly to ease the financial burden of shopping.
“One day, I had a random thought — what if it could find me discount codes? I gave it a go, and it worked. It pulled a heap of codes,” she explained. While not every code is guaranteed to work, McDonald reported that she often manages to find discounts ranging from 15% to 30% off her purchases. The AI even crosses checks if the codes are valid for the current month.
How It Works
The method McDonald uses is straightforward. She simply asks ChatGPT, “Can you find me discount codes for [brand name]?” The AI typically responds with a list of codes, which McDonald tests to see if they provide any savings.
This trend has gained traction on social media, with numerous shoppers sharing similar techniques to utilise AI for discounts. McDonald noted that while she has successfully found working discounts for brands such as Billy J and Charcoal Clothing, the efficacy of this approach can be hit or miss during peak sale periods, like the end of financial year (EOFY) sales.
Yahoo Finance also tested the concept, discovering that the effectiveness of finding discount codes improved when users were logged into a ChatGPT account. While some codes didn’t work, several did, providing a practical start to saving.
The Social Media Buzz
McDonald took to TikTok to share her newfound shopping strategy, joking that it “feels illegal to know” such a great tip. Her video quickly garnered tens of thousands of views, with followers praising her approach. Comments from viewers highlighted their own successful savings experiences, with one user celebrating a $60 discount on shoes they had been eyeing.
Others chimed in, saying, “It’s literally the best!! Hahaha I honestly don’t shop online unless I can find a discount code” and expressing that ChatGPT has simplified their search for deals.
Additional Tips for Savvy Shoppers
Beyond ChatGPT, McDonald employs other tools to maximise her savings. She keeps ShopBack running in the background, which offers cashback on various purchases, particularly beneficial for bigger expenses like hotel bookings. Additionally, she uses Zyft, a price comparison tool that helps shoppers identify the best prices across different retailers.
Other enthusiasts are also recommending tools like Honey and the Microsoft Edge discount extension. These tools assist in streamlining the hunt for discount codes, contributing to a more satisfactory online shopping experience.
Conclusion
As the cost of living continues to rise, innovative strategies like those employed by Andie McDonald serve as pivotal tools for consumers eager to save. By merging AI technology with traditional shopping methods, Australians are discovering new pathways to affordability. With the integration of these tools, shoppers can transform their online buying habits, ensuring they’re not just spending, but spending wisely.
For anyone looking to make the most of their online shopping, leveraging AI, utilising cashback websites, and staying on top of discount codes can lead to significant financial benefits. As seen through McDonald’s experience, it’s not just about shopping—it’s about shopping smart.
