Google has introduced the Universal Commerce Protocol (UCP) to enhance AI-driven shopping experiences, allowing consumers to purchase products via AI chatbots and search platforms. This initiative was revealed at the National Retail Federation conference in New York City and has garnered support from notable retailers and payment processors, including Walmart, Target, Shopify, and Etsy.
Notably absent from this announcement was Amazon, which has traditionally dominated online shopping infrastructure. The UCP could provide an alternative route for shoppers, potentially reducing Amazon's influence during key moments of product discovery. Google CEO Sundar Pichai emphasized that AI agents will play a significant role in future shopping dynamics.
The protocol aims to simplify interactions between retailers and AI platforms by establishing a common framework that allows seamless access to product information, pricing, and checkout processes. This development could shift how consumers engage with online shopping, especially as reports indicate a dramatic increase in AI-driven traffic to retail websites.