Google AI Shopping: Conversational Search & Agentic Checkout

Google Enhances AI-Powered Shopping Experience

Ahead of the upcoming holiday season, Google is introducing a range of new AI-driven shopping features. These updates, revealed on Thursday, encompass conversational shopping within Google Search, expanded capabilities in the Gemini app, agentic checkout functionality, and an innovative AI tool capable of contacting local retailers.

Improving the Online Shopping Journey

Google aims to streamline the often-cumbersome online shopping process. Vidhya Srinivasan, VP and GM of ads and commerce at Google, explained during a press briefing that the goal is to make shopping more intuitive and less tedious.

She stated that the intention is to preserve the enjoyable aspects of shopping, such as browsing and discovery, while eliminating frustrating and time-consuming elements.

Conversational Shopping with AI Mode

Consumers will soon be able to pose shopping-related questions using natural language within Google’s AI Mode. This conversational search feature provides responses tailored to the query.

The chatbot will also incorporate visual aids, such as images, when appropriate, alongside crucial details like pricing, customer reviews, and current stock levels.

Dynamic Responses Based on Query Type

For example, a search for “cozy sweaters in autumn colors” will yield a selection of relevant images. Conversely, a comparison of skincare products may be presented in a structured comparison table.

Powered by the Shopping Graph

Google’s AI Mode is powered by its extensive Shopping Graph, which contains over 50 billion product listings. Approximately 2 billion of these listings are updated hourly, ensuring relatively current inventory information.

Enhanced Gemini App Capabilities

The Gemini app will now offer more comprehensive responses to shopping-related inquiries, moving beyond simple text suggestions. Currently, this feature is limited to users in the United States.

Advertising within AI Features

Google has confirmed that sponsored listings will be integrated into AI Mode. However, these advertisements will not yet appear within the Gemini mobile application, as the features remain experimental.

Agentic Checkout in Google Search

Google is also launching agentic checkout within Google Search, including within AI Mode, in the U.S. This feature is currently compatible with retailers such as Wayfair, Chewy, Quince, and select Shopify stores.

Streamlined Purchasing with Google Pay

Agentic checkout allows users to track product prices and receive notifications when prices fall within their desired budget. Users can then authorize Google to purchase the item on their behalf through Google Pay.

Google emphasizes that explicit permission will always be sought before any purchase is made, and users will be required to confirm their purchase and shipping details.

Benefits for Shoppers and Retailers

Lilian Rincon, VP of product management for Google Shopping, highlighted the benefits for both consumers and retailers. The feature eliminates the need for constant price monitoring for shoppers and helps retailers re-engage customers who might otherwise have abandoned their search.

Rincon also underscored the security of the feature, built upon Google’s trusted Shopping Graph and Google Pay infrastructure.

AI-Powered Phone Calls to Local Stores

A new AI feature enables automated phone calls to local businesses to inquire about product availability, pricing, and promotions.

Leveraging Duplex Technology

This capability is based on Google’s Duplex technology, initially introduced in 2018, combined with the Shopping Graph and payment infrastructure. The AI will contact stores, ask relevant questions, and provide a summary of its findings to the user.

Initial Availability and Usage

Currently rolling out in the U.S. for categories like toys, health and beauty products, and electronics, the feature can be accessed by searching for products “near me” and selecting the “Let Google Call” option.

Considerations for Retailers

Google is prioritizing a positive experience for retailers. The AI chatbot will be programmed to avoid excessive calling and will clearly identify itself as an AI assistant. Retailers will also have the option to opt out of receiving these calls.

Stores that do not opt out will first hear a disclosure that an AI is calling on behalf of a customer, and the call will only proceed with their consent.

Demo Challenges

During a press briefing, Google executives intended to demonstrate the technology, but technical difficulties with the Wi-Fi connection prevented a complete demonstration.