iStock adds AI to its search

iStock search now supports a more intuitive and conversational experience with the integration of AI-enhanced search capabilities.

The new feature allows users to input longer and more descriptive phrases, making it easier to find exactly what they’re looking for without relying on precise keywords. iStock’s enhanced search is powered by machine learning models to understand natural language. This new functionality allows you to type in, for example, “diverse couples doing a variety of indoor and outdoor activities together” instead of “diverse couple outdoor activities”.

“Now you can be as descriptive as you like, using longer and more conversational phrases instead of precise keywords,” iStock announced. This approach streamlines the search process and allows users to find the images and videos they need with more ease and accuracy.

If you prefer to use traditional search, you can toggle the enhanced search on and off. “Want to see the difference? Enhanced search gives you a greater number of relevant results than ever. Try toggling it off and on for this search to see the difference,” iStock suggests.

While AI is seemingly being added to everything these days, iStock’s move follows in the footsteps of Envato Elements, which introduced AI-powered search to its platform a few months ago.

This update adds another AI tool to iStock’s suite, following the addition of their AI image generator.