Google Unveils AI Shopping Framework: Agent-Led Buying Goes Mainstream

• Google introduces "agentic commerce" with a new AI shopping framework and tools.
• The Universal Commerce Protocol (UCP) is an open standard for AI agents, retailers, and payment systems to communicate seamlessly.
• UCP is backed by over 20 companies, including Shopify, Etsy, Walmart, Target, Visa, Mastercard, Flipkart, and The Home Depot.
• Google will deploy UCP in the US via Search's AI Mode and Gemini app, allowing direct purchases from participating retailers.
• New "Business Agent" chatbots and expanded Merchant Center data aim to enhance AI-driven shopping experiences and visibility for brands.

Why It Matters: Google launches a comprehensive AI shopping framework, UCP, to enable agent-led commerce and streamline online purchases.