This special issue examines how artificial intelligence, particularly generative AI and immersive technologies, is reshaping consumer experiences and marketing strategies. The collection addresses emerging challenges around consumer autonomy, data governance, and well-being as AI becomes increasingly embedded in phygital ecosystems that blend physical and digital touchpoints. The issue aims to establish a multidisciplinary foundation for integrating AI into socially responsible marketing practices that prioritize consumer trust, equity, and psychological safety.
The special issue seeks research that advances ethical frameworks for AI-driven marketing innovation, identifies how responsible practices create competitive advantage, develops multi-stakeholder collaboration approaches, and examines implications for vulnerable populations. It welcomes studies on algorithmic transparency, anthropomorphic AI relationships, identity formation in AI-mediated environments, and governance mechanisms that balance personalization with consumer protection across immersive and phygital contexts.