The Estée Lauder Companies (ELC) and Microsoft Corp. have joined forces to establish an AI Innovation Lab, marking the expansion of their global strategic relationship. By harnessing the advanced capabilities of generative AI in Microsoft Azure OpenAI Service, the two companies aim to develop solutions that will empower ELC’s prestigious beauty brands, comprising more than 20 labels. Together, they seek to establish stronger connections with consumers and enhance their speed to market, all while maintaining local relevancy.
This augmented partnership will drive impactful generative AI applications across various domains within ELC’s business. Notably, the companies have already collaborated on the creation of an internal generative AI chatbot, which has proven effective in enhancing global marketing efforts.
Jane Lauder, EVP, Enterprise Marketing and Chief Data Officer at The Estée Lauder Companies, expressed her enthusiasm for the collaboration, emphasizing that technology always supports their core strengths of high-quality products and personalized consumer experiences. With Microsoft’s generative AI tools and expertise, ELC can leverage its vast data resources to create even more tailored consumer experiences, gain faster insights, and increase speed to market while maintaining strong local relevancy. Lauder looks forward to continuing the close and collaborative partnership with Microsoft.
Shelley Bransten, corporate vice president, Global Industry Solutions at Microsoft, acknowledged the substantial opportunities that generative AI presents to the beauty industry. This technology has the potential to create more engaging customer experiences, expedite product delivery, and drive efficient and sustainable product development. Microsoft is proud to collaborate with The Estée Lauder Companies, providing not only an AI innovation platform but also a deep partnership to bring these new innovations to life.
The AI Innovation Lab signifies a deepening of the strategic relationship between ELC and Microsoft, which originally commenced in 2017. As part of this long-term collaboration, ELC chose Azure AI as the platform for its Voice-Enabled Makeup Assistant (VMA). Launched in early 2023 as a first-of-its-kind mobile app, the VMA assists visually impaired users in applying makeup with ease and confidence. Currently available on iOS and Android in the United States, United Kingdom, and Ireland, the app is set to expand to additional markets and languages in the months to come.
