Shopify Inc. and Alphabet Inc.’s Google launched the Universal Commerce Protocol (UCP) at the National Retail Federation conference, revolutionizing AI-driven shopping. Co-created with major retailers like Walmart and Target, UCP establishes a unified language for AI agents in product discovery, checkout, and support, eliminating the need for customized integrations. Shopify’s president, Harley Finkelstein, emphasized that UCP enables complex transactions, enhancing user experiences by tailoring services to individual preferences, such as delivery timing.
UCP aligns with rising AI shopping trends; Shopify noted a significant surge in AI-driven visits and orders. The protocol enhances “merit-based shopping,” promoting contextual product relevance over ad spend. Analysts predict that AI shopping could capture 10-20% of U.S. e-commerce by 2030. UCP supports various platforms, extending beyond Shopify while maintaining merchant data integrity. As brands adapt to this evolving landscape, success hinges on structured catalogs and continuous updates to maximize the advantages of AI and automation in retail.
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