Tech Report: Walmart eyes AI startup acquisition as Target launches ChatGPT tool and TikTok tests limits on AI content

Walmart is reportedly in talks to acquire R&A Data, a tech startup founded by two Israeli scientists that specializes in detecting scams and counterfeit products across online marketplaces.

(LILAMAX)- Walmart is reportedly in talks to acquire R&A Data, a tech startup founded by two Israeli scientists that specializes in detecting scams and counterfeit products across online marketplaces. The potential acquisition comes as Walmart has added hundreds of millions of third-party product listings to its platform in recent years, increasing the need for more sophisticated fraud-detection tools. R&A Data uses artificial intelligence to monitor listings for compliance and identify potential issues.

Target is also expanding its use of AI, launching a new venture that integrates ChatGPT directly into the Target app. Shoppers can now ask the chatbot questions about specific items or get help finding gift ideas. A recent Harris Poll found that nearly half of Gen Z consumers say they would trust AI to guide their purchases — from clothing and skincare to everyday essentials.

Meanwhile, TikTok is testing a new feature allowing users to limit the amount of AI-generated content appearing in their feeds. Much of this content, often considered low-quality or unnecessary, has earned the nickname “AI slop.” The tech world is also seeing new efforts to filter such material: Kagi, the company behind a privacy-focused search engine, has launched SlopStop — described as the first community-driven system to detect and downrank poor-quality AI search results. Part of the “Small Web” initiative, SlopStop combines Kagi’s own detection tools with community reports and expert review to promote more accurate, trustworthy search results while still preserving legitimate AI uses.

In the media world, “The Joe Rogan Experience” climbed to the top of Apple’s most popular podcast list this year, up from number three in 2024. “The Daily” from the New York Times ranked second, followed by “The Mel Robbins Podcast,” which was not in the top ten last year. Rogan has long held the top spot on Spotify’s charts.