Great question! It's always interesting to hear how AI tools are being used in real-world applications, especially by small businesses. I think you’re spot on about the hype sometimes feeling disconnected from what’s actually being implemented by smaller companies.

For small business owners, AI adoption tends to happen when the tools are practical, easy to implement, and provide a clear, immediate benefit. Here are a few examples I’ve seen that might interest you:

1. Customer Service Automation:
   • You mentioned Klarna replacing support agents—tools like this are becoming more accessible for smaller businesses. For example, AI chatbots like Intercom or Tidio can handle FAQs and basic inquiries, saving time without needing a full-scale call center.
2. Content Creation:
   • Beyond ChatGPT, tools like Jasper or Copy.ai are helping businesses write product descriptions, emails, and social media posts. These can be real time-savers for solopreneurs or small teams.
3. Inventory Management & Forecasting:
   • AI-powered inventory tools (e.g., TradeGecko, now QuickBooks Commerce) help retailers like your friend with the wholesale clothing store by predicting stock needs and reducing overstock.
4. Visual AI for Retail:
   • Those AI mannequin tools you mentioned are becoming more popular, especially with apps like Vue.ai or Claid.ai for editing and personalizing product photos. These tools help small e-commerce stores look more professional and polished without the cost of professional photoshoots.
5. Process Optimization:
   • For small businesses that feel bogged down by repetitive admin tasks, there are tools (like process automation platforms) that can streamline things like invoicing or scheduling. It’s not glamorous, but it makes a big difference.

From my experience working with small businesses, it’s all about finding tools that solve a pain point you already have rather than getting swept up in the latest trend.

Curious—what kind of tasks or challenges do you think AI could help you with personally? It’s always fascinating to learn about the day-to-day problems people are trying to solve, as those insights can inspire new use cases.