Phia’s founders on how AI is changing online shopping

TechCrunchCenterEN 2 min read 100% complete by Sarah PerezOctober 29, 2025 at 01:43 PM

AI Summary

medium article 2 min

Phia, an AI startup founded by Phoebe Gates and Sophia Kianni at Stanford University, aims to revolutionize online shopping through a browser extension and app that compares prices across more than 150 second-hand platforms. The tool includes over 350 million items in its database and helps users understand the value of products they purchase, including resale potential. By promoting sustainable shopping with an 80% reduction in carbon footprint compared to buying new items, Phia also emphasizes cost savings. Additionally, the startup is developing an AI advisor that provides sizing insights based on user data, currently available in beta testing. The founders have employed various marketing strategies, such as ambassador programs and content creation, to attract users.

Key Topics & Entities

Stanford 40% TechCrunch Disrupt 2025 60% Phoebe Gates ×270% Sophia Kianni ×380% Phia ×690%

Keywords

ai shopping 90% online shopping 80% sustainability 70% second-hand platforms 60% resale value 50% carbon footprint 50% price comparison 50% browser extension 40% fashion basics 40% personal shopping assistant 40%

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ai shopping online shopping sustainability second-hand platforms resale value carbon footprint price comparison browser extension fashion basics personal shopping assistant

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