E-commerce businesses are always looking for ways to offer better customer support, streamline operations, and boost sales. Enter chatbots: software applications that simulate human conversations to enhance customer service and experience. Shopify, one of the most popular e-commerce platforms, supports several chatbot solutions designed to meet these goals.
With advanced features like AI-powered customer engagement, multilingual support, and integrations for live chat transfer, these tools not only resolve customer inquiries quickly but also contribute to increased conversions and sales. For businesses leveraging Shopify, choosing the right chatbot can reduce operational costs, increase efficiency, and provide privacy and ownership of customer data.
This blog highlights the top 9 chatbots for Shopify that use cutting-edge AI technology, including solutions tailored for complex customer queries, omnichannel deployment, and integrations with platforms like Facebook Messenger, Instagram, and WhatsApp.
Criteria for Selecting the Right Chatbot
Choosing the right Shopify chatbot app can feel overwhelming with so many options available. To make the best decision, consider these key factors:
1. Features and Functionality
Start by identifying the essential features your business needs. Look for chatbots that offer:
- AI-driven capabilities for understanding customer queries.
- Customizable templates to match your brand voice.
- Multilingual support for reaching a broader audience.
- Seamless integrations with messaging services like Facebook Messenger, WhatsApp, and Instagram.
For example, businesses that need omnichannel deployment integrations should prioritize chatbots designed to function across multiple platforms simultaneously.
2. Ease of Use and Coding Knowledge
Some chatbots, like custom GPT bot builders, require basic coding knowledge, while others come with no-code or low-code options. Consider your team’s technical expertise when evaluating chatbot solutions. A user-friendly interface with a drag-and-drop bot builder can save time and resources.
3. Pricing and Scalability
Budget is a crucial factor for SMBs and startups. Compare pricing models and choose a chatbot that aligns with your current needs and allows room for growth. Many chatbots offer free or tiered plans, making them accessible for smaller businesses.
4. Integration and Compatibility
Ensure the chatbot integrates seamlessly with your existing Shopify store and other tools like CRM software, email marketing platforms, or analytics dashboards. Look for bots that support live chat transfer, enabling a smooth handoff to human agents when needed.
5. Customization and Branding
Your chatbot should feel like an extension of your brand. Look for options that allow for voice customization, templates, and personalized messaging. This enhances the customer’s self-service journey and creates a memorable experience.
6. Customer Support and Updates
Pick a provider known for reliable customer support and regular updates. An outdated chatbot can cause privacy and ownership concerns, so ensure the platform stays compliant with the latest security standards.
By keeping these criteria in mind, you can choose an AI chatbot that enhances customer support and experience while aligning with your business goals.
Top 9 Chatbots for Shopify
Here’s a detailed look at the best chatbots for Shopify, their features, and how they can transform your e-commerce business.
1. Desku
Desku is an AI chatbot platform tailored for improving customer service and experience in e-commerce. This Shopify chatbot app automates customer inquiries, offers integrations for live chat transfer, and reduces operational costs and increased efficiency. It’s an excellent option for SMBs aiming to streamline operations with emerging technology.
Features:
- Offers AI-driven automation for handling customer inquiries.
- Seamless integrations with Shopify and other platforms.
- Provides real-time data insights for improved customer service.
Pros: Easy to set up, user-friendly, and affordable for small businesses.
Cons: Limited advanced customization options compared to competitors.
Best For: SMBs looking for an intuitive customer support solution.
Pricing:
Starter: $18/month for up to 5 agents (billed annually) or $28/month for unlimited agents (billed annually).
Enterprise: Contact Desku’s sales team for custom pricing.
2. Chatfuel
Chatfuel is a no-code bot builder ideal for creating conversational chatbots for platforms like Facebook Messenger. It helps businesses improve their market reach and accessibility while engaging with customers in real-time. A great tool for businesses using AI chatbots to enhance customer support and experience.
Features:
- No-code bot builder for creating conversational chatbots.
- Ideal for marketing and customer engagement on Facebook Messenger.
- Supports omnichannel deployment for Shopify stores.
Pros: Great for businesses new to chatbots.
Cons: Primarily focused on Facebook Messenger.
Best For: Brands focusing on market reach and accessibility via Facebook.
Pricing:
Free Plan: Basic features.
Pro Plan: Starting at $15/month, includes additional features and higher usage limits.
3. Chatway
Chatway specializes in creating multilingual chatbots with omnichannel deployment integrations for Shopify stores. It supports messaging services like Instagram and WhatsApp, ensuring smooth communication across platforms. Perfect for businesses looking to scale globally while managing customer queries efficiently.
Features:
- Tailored solutions for Shopify customer service and sales.
- Multilingual support for global audiences.
- Live chat transfer for complex queries requiring human agents.
Pros: Excellent multilingual capabilities.
Cons: Can be expensive for smaller businesses.
Best For: Businesses with diverse customer bases.
Pricing:
Specific pricing information is not readily available. For detailed pricing, please visit Chatway’s official website or contact their sales team directly.
4. Zendesk
Zendesk integrates robust AI chatbot capabilities with its renowned customer support software platform. It handles customer inquiries with ease, offers advanced analytics, and enhances the customer’s self-service journey. Ideal for e-commerce brands seeking improved costs and increased efficiency through automation.
Features:
- Combines chatbot functionality with a robust customer support platform.
- AI-powered automation for analyzing sales and generating reports.
- Seamless integration with Shopify for order tracking and customer support.
Pros: Scalable for growing businesses.
Cons: Higher cost for advanced features.
Best For: Enterprises seeking customization templates and analytics.
Pricing:
Suite Team: $49/agent/month, includes essential features.
Suite Growth: $79/agent/month, offers more advanced features.
Suite Professional: $99/agent/month. – Enterprise: Custom pricing available.
5. Tidio
Tidio combines AI chatbots for business with live chat tools to improve customer engagement on Shopify. Its drag-and-drop bot builder omnichannel deployment makes it beginner-friendly while integrating with major messaging services. A perfect choice for businesses looking to reduce cost time and resources while boosting conversions.
Features:
- Combines live chat and AI chatbot capabilities.
- Intuitive interface with drag-and-drop bot builder.
- Integrates with Shopify and messaging services like Instagram and WhatsApp.
Pros: User-friendly and affordable.
Cons: Limited advanced AI functionality.
Best For: SMBs needing omnichannel deployment integrations live chat.
Pricing:
Free Plan: Limited features.
Communicator Plan: $19/month, includes more advanced features and higher limits.
Chatbots Plan: $39/month for AI-powered chatbots.
6. Re:amaze
Re:amaze is an all-in-one customer support software platform with chatbot tools for Shopify. It offers machine learning capabilities to handle complex customer queries and support human agents. Its unified interface ensures a seamless customer service and experience for businesses of all sizes.
Features:
- Offers customer support software with chatbot features.
- Excellent for customer engagement and lead nurturing.
- Includes AI chatbot tools to support human agents.
Pros: Unified platform for email, chat, and social media interactions.
Cons: Can feel complex for new users.
Best For: Businesses needing an all-in-one customer support solution.
Pricing:
Basic Plan: $20/team member/month.
Pro Plan: $40/team member/month.
Plus Plan: $60/team member/month.
7. Gorgias
Gorgias is a Shopify-focused AI chatbot that automates responses to frequent customer inquiries. With advanced integrations live chat transfer and data insights, it improves customer support and experience. Perfect for established Shopify brands prioritizing increased conversions and sales.
Features:
- Shopify-focused chatbot with deep integration capabilities.
- Specializes in automating customer inquiries and improving the customer’s self-service journey.
- Provides data insights for better decision-making.
Pros: Built for Shopify; excels in automation.
Cons: Expensive for startups.
Best For: Established Shopify stores.
Pricing:
Basic Plan: $60/month for up to 350 tickets.
Pro Plan: $300/month for up to 2,000 tickets.
Advanced Plan: $750/month for up to 5,000 tickets. – Additional tickets can be purchased as needed.
8. Formilla
Formilla is a versatile AI chatbot platform with live chat capabilities. It features voice customization templates multilingual, and supports messaging services like WhatsApp and Instagram. Ideal for businesses focused on reduced operational costs and enhanced customer engagement.
Features:
- AI chatbot and live chat platform in one.
- Offers voice customization and multilingual support.
- Includes real-time monitoring and analytics.
Pros: Cost-effective and great for personalization.
Cons: Limited integrations compared to competitors.
Best For: Businesses focused on personalized customer engagement.
Pricing:
Free Plan: Basic features.
Premium Plan: Starting at $19.99/month, includes additional features and higher usage limits.
9. Manifest AI
Manifest AI leverages artificial intelligence chatbots to create virtual assistant solutions that simulate human conversations with users. With seamless Shopify integration and machine learning capabilities, it improves customer support and drives increased conversions and sales.
Features:
- Leverages advanced AI to provide enhanced customer service.
- Integrates seamlessly with Shopify and other platforms.
- Allows businesses to simulate human conversations with users.
Pros: Highly customizable with machine learning capabilities.
Cons: Steep learning curve for beginners.
Best For: E-commerce brands looking for cutting-edge AI chatbots to support.
Pricing:
Starter Plan: Starting at $39/month, includes AI-powered customer support.
Custom Plans: Available with monthly and annual options, offering 24/7 support.
Comparison Table
| Chatbot | Key Features | Pricing | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Desku | AI-driven automation, real-time data insights, integrations for live chat transfer. | Affordable, SMB-friendly | Small businesses needing easy-to-use solutions. |
| Chatfuel | No-code bot builder, focused on Facebook Messenger, omnichannel deployment for marketing and customer engagement. | Free and tiered plans | Brands focusing on social media reach and accessibility. |
| Chatway | Multilingual support, omnichannel deployment, live chat transfer for complex queries. | Mid-range pricing | Businesses targeting global markets. |
| Zendesk | Advanced AI tools, Shopify integration, analytics for customer inquiries, customizable workflows. | Higher cost for premium plans | Enterprises needing comprehensive customer support solutions. |
| Tidio | Drag-and-drop builder, live chat combined with AI chatbot, integrates with WhatsApp and Instagram. | Free basic plan, affordable pro options | SMBs looking for cost-effective, beginner-friendly tools. |
| Re:amaze | Unified platform for email, chat, social media; chatbot tools for FAQs, lead nurturing, and advanced analytics. | Affordable tiers | Mid-sized businesses needing an all-in-one support solution. |
| Gorgias | Shopify-focused, deep integrations, data insights for automated customer engagement. | Premium pricing | Established Shopify brands prioritizing automation. |
| Formilla | Voice customization, multilingual support, live chat and AI chatbot in one, real-time monitoring. | Low to mid-range pricing | Businesses focusing on personalization and customer engagement. |
| Manifest AI | Advanced AI and machine learning, customizable virtual assistant, seamless Shopify integration for enhanced customer conversations. | High-end pricing | Brands looking for cutting-edge AI capabilities. |
Benefits of Integrating Chatbots with Shopify
Integrating chatbots with your Shopify store can transform how your business handles customer service and experience. These AI chatbots are software applications designed to simulate human conversations and bring efficiency to daily operations. Let’s explore their benefits:
1. Enhanced Customer Service
Chatbots can answer customer inquiries instantly, ensuring quicker resolution times. They’re available 24/7, which means you never miss an opportunity to assist your customers, even outside regular business hours. By using AI chatbots, businesses can handle routine questions, leaving human agents free to focus on more complex customer queries.
2. Reduced Operational Costs
AI chatbots reduce the cost, time, and resources required for customer support by automating repetitive tasks. For example, Shopify chatbot apps can process returns, track orders, or provide product recommendations without requiring human intervention. This leads to increased efficiency and lower operational costs.
3. Increased Conversions and Sales
A chatbot’s ability to engage customers in real-time can lead to expanded market reach and increased conversions. With features like personalized messaging, upselling, and cross-selling, these tools enhance the shopping experience and drive sales. Businesses using AI chatbots often see higher customer satisfaction rates and more completed transactions.
4. Privacy and Ownership of Customer Data
Many chatbots prioritize data privacy and ownership, ensuring customer data is protected. This is critical for e-commerce businesses where trust plays a huge role in maintaining customer relationships.
5. Seamless Integrations and Multichannel Support
Modern chatbots offer omnichannel deployment integrations with platforms like Facebook Messenger, Instagram, WhatsApp, and even live chat on your website. This ensures consistent communication across all channels, improving accessibility and customer engagement.
6. Scalability for Growing Businesses
Whether you’re an SMB or a larger e-commerce brand, AI chatbots are scalable. With customization templates, multilingual capabilities, and integrations, these tools grow with your business while maintaining their efficiency.
How to Integrate a Chatbot into Your Shopify Store
Adding a chatbot to your Shopify store can improve customer engagement and simplify support processes. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you integrate a chatbot seamlessly:
1. Choose the Right Chatbot Platform
Select a chatbot that meets your business needs. Look for features like:
- Omnichannel deployment integrations live chat transfer.
- Customization templates multilingual for branding.
- Compatibility with Shopify and tools like CRM or email marketing platforms.
Chatbots like Desku, Zendesk, and Tidio are excellent choices for Shopify stores.
2. Install the App from Shopify App Store
Go to the Shopify App Store and search for your chosen chatbot (e.g., Manifest AI or Chatfuel).
- Click on the app and hit the Add App button.
- Log in to your Shopify admin panel and grant the necessary permissions.
3. Configure the Chatbot Settings
Once installed, customize the chatbot to match your store’s branding and customer needs:
- Use the bot builder omnichannel deployment tools to set up responses for various platforms like Facebook Messenger, WhatsApp, and Instagram.
- Add FAQs, product recommendations, and human conversations with users for common customer queries.
- Set up multilingual support if you cater to a global audience.
4. Integrate with Messaging Services and Tools
Enable integrations with platforms like:
- Facebook Messenger, WhatsApp, Instagram for enhanced market reach and accessibility.
- CRM systems to access historical customer data.
- Live chat tools for human agent transfer when needed.
5. Test the Chatbot
Run a few tests to ensure the chatbot works smoothly:
- Test responses to common customer inquiries.
- Check the integration with Shopify (e.g., order tracking, returns, and product suggestions).
- Ensure smooth escalation to human agents for unresolved queries.
6. Launch and Monitor
Activate the chatbot on your Shopify store and monitor its performance. Use analytics tools to track:
- Customer engagement metrics.
- Conversion rates and increased sales driven by the chatbot.
- Feedback to identify areas for improvement.
7. Regularly Update and Optimize
Keep the chatbot updated with the latest features and data. Incorporate:
- Seasonal FAQs for events like Black Friday or holiday sales.
- New product recommendations.
- Feedback-driven improvements to enhance the customer’s self-service journey.
By following these steps, you can integrate an AI chatbot into your Shopify store efficiently, improving customer service and experience while driving costs and increased efficiency.
Conclusion
Chatbots are essential for enhancing customer service and experience in Shopify stores. They handle customer inquiries, automate tasks, and boost conversions and sales. From budget-friendly options like Tidio to advanced tools like Manifest AI, there’s a chatbot for every business need.
By choosing a chatbot with features like omnichannel deployment, multilingual support, and scalability, you can improve efficiency and customer satisfaction. Now’s the time to embrace AI chatbots and transform your e-commerce operations.
FAQ: Common Questions About Shopify Chatbots
1. What are AI chatbots, and how do they work on Shopify?
AI chatbots are software applications that simulate human conversations using artificial intelligence. On Shopify, they help businesses handle customer inquiries, provide personalized support, and automate repetitive tasks, improving overall customer service and experience.
2. Do I need coding knowledge to use a Shopify chatbot?
Most Shopify chatbots come with a no-code bot builder, making them accessible to all users. Platforms like Chatfuel and Tidio offer drag-and-drop tools for easy customization, while advanced options like Manifest AI may require basic coding knowledge for complex features.
3. What are the benefits of using AI chatbots for my Shopify store?
AI chatbots for business provide:
Reduced operational costs by automating routine tasks.
Increased conversions and sales through real-time engagement.
Enhanced customer support and experience with 24/7 availability.
Improved customer data management and insights.
