Google, Shopify and retailers push AI shopping standard

Google and Shopify, along with retailers, unveiled a new standard to help artificial intelligence (AI) autonomously complete purchases across different shopping platforms. The initiative centers on the Universal Commerce Protocol (UCP), co-developed by Google with industry leaders including Shopify, Etsy, Wayfair, Walmart, and Target. More than 20 retailers, platforms, and payment companies endorse the protocol, including Home Depot, Best Buy, Macy's, Mastercard, and Visa. The new standard is designed to help AI tools move shoppers from "I'm interested" to "I've bought it" without forcing them to jump between apps, websites or checkout systems. Google says UCP will soon power shopping inside AI Mode in Search and the Gemini app, letting people buy without leaving the conversation.