Pinterest has officially launched its “body type ranges” feature across the United States, allowing users to refine their searches to include a variety of body types. This feature, which Pinterest began to test last year and is currently available to Canadian users, represents a significant advancement in the platform’s commitment to inclusivity, particularly within women’s fashion and wedding planning spheres.
The “body type ranges” tool enables users to tailor their search results according to specific body types, showcasing size-inclusive brands such as Eloquii, Ganni, Mara Hoffman, Osei Duro, Gia / Irl, and others prominently on its search landing page. To access this feature, users simply enter a search term and select the “Body Types” option. This action reveals four distinct body types at the top of the results page, allowing for a customized browsing experience. Notably, if a user selects a body type twice, the platform offers the option to save this preference, streamlining future searches.
Behind the Technology: Pinterest’s AI Innovation
Pinterest’s introduction of this feature is grounded in its proprietary computer vision technology. This technology, which is currently pending patent approval, leverages advanced AI to analyze over 3.5 billion images on the platform for shape, size, and form. This analysis aids in accurately identifying and categorizing a wide array of body types among the platform’s models and subjects. The technology builds upon Pinterest’s existing inclusive features, such as skin tone ranges and hair patterns, further enhancing the platform’s ability to cater to a diverse user base.
Pinterest’s Chief Product Officer, Sabrina Ellis, shared insights into the impact of the “body type ranges” feature, noting a 66% increase in engagement per session among users who utilized the tool. This statistic underscores the feature’s resonance with Pinterest’s audience, affirming its role in creating a more personalized and inclusive user experience.
The “body type ranges” feature aligns with Pinterest’s broader strategy of employing AI in ways that enrich rather than detract from the user experience. By focusing on additive rather than addictive technology, Pinterest aspires to create a healthier online space that reflects and respects the diversity of its users. This initiative has been bolstered by collaborations with organizations and advocates such as the National Association to Advance Fat Acceptance (NAAFA), model Tess Holliday, and Pinterest creators Natalie Craig, Kellie Brown, and Stefany Brito, among others.
Currently, the “body type ranges” tool is available for searches related to women’s fashion and wedding content within the United States. Pinterest has announced plans to extend this feature to men’s fashion later in the year, further expanding its inclusivity efforts.
How to use and save body type ranges?
To utilize the “body type ranges” feature, users can follow these steps:
- Open the Pinterest app and select the search icon.
- Type a phrase into the search bar.
- Click on “body types” at the top of the search results.
- Select from a range from 1-4 body types.
- To save this preference for future searches, simply search again with the same body type selected. Pinterest will automatically prompt users to save the body type preference.
This feature is part of Pinterest’s ongoing mission to ensure that users see themselves reflected in their search results, thereby increasing representation and providing users with more control over their browsing experience. With the launch of the “body type ranges” feature, Pinterest takes a significant step towards realizing its vision of a more inclusive and personalized digital platform.
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Featured Image courtesy of Pinterest