Google has launched a new AI-powered shopping platform called “Universal Cart,” which allows customers to add items from Google Search, Gemini, Gmail, and YouTube into a single cart. The platform uses artificial intelligence to provide buying recommendations, price alerts, and compatibility checks.
Universal Cart will be available on Google Search and Gemini this summer, with integration for YouTube and Gmail coming later. Major brands including Nike, Sephora, Target, Walmart, and Wayfair will support the cart at checkout.
Google says the AI works behind the scenes to find deals, monitor price drops, and alert users when out-of-stock items become available. It can also flag incompatible items and show how to earn rewards using Google Wallet.
The launch comes as consumers increasingly turn to AI for shopping. Adobe reported that generative AI tools drove an 893.4% increase in traffic to retail sites during the 2024 holiday season. Columbia Business School noted that better search and product information help drive completed purchases.
However, critics raise ethical concerns. Mark Bartholomew, a law professor at the University of Buffalo, warned that AI shopping tools could be optimised for corporate profit rather than user interests, highlighting the need for regulation.
