This chapter explores the FTC's investigation into surveillance pricing, highlighting the use of AI to manipulate product pricing based on consumer data. Through a case study involving Starbucks, the discussion raises concerns about fair market practices and legislative responses in both the US and China.
The US antitrust and consumer protection watchdog has recently launched a probe into what it calls "surveillance pricing." More specifically, they seek information on the use of artificial intelligence in setting different prices to the same product for different consumers. Is it similar to what Chinese people had experienced and what Chinese legislators have tried to combat? On the show: Laiming, Li Yi & Steve Hatherly