Google's Universal Commerce Protocol: Making AI shopping smoother
Google just dropped the Universal Commerce Protocol (UCP), a new open standard built with big names like Shopify, Etsy, Target, and Walmart.
With support from over 20 companies—including Visa, Mastercard, and PayPal—UCP aims to make shopping with AI way less complicated for everyone.
One protocol to connect it all
UCP lets different AI agents, retailers, and payment providers talk to each other easily—no more clunky one-off integrations.
It works across industries and supports things like loyalty rewards and custom shopping experiences (coming soon), as announced by Google.
Faster checkouts for US shoppers
If you're in the US, you'll soon be able to buy straight from product listings in Google Search or the Gemini app using your saved info on Google Pay. PayPal support is also on the way.
Basically: fewer clicks between seeing something cool and actually owning it.
Smarter deals and helpful shopping agents
Google's also testing "Direct Offers" that surface discounts or free shipping in AI Mode when you're likely ready to buy.
Plus, stores like Lowe's and Reebok are getting branded AI agents that can answer questions or help you shop via a chat interface.