Shopify enables browser-based AI agents to complete checkout transactions

E-commerce platform Shopify now allows browser-based artificial intelligence agents to complete full purchases on merchant websites. While some online retailers block automated tools from buying items, Shopify has expanded its system to handle entire transactions.

Expanding automated shopping

Previously, Shopify supported a standard called WebMCP, which lets software agents browse inventory and add items to a shopping cart inside a user's web browser. The new update extends this capability to the checkout process, including the Shop Pay payment service.

This means browser assistants can read checkout screens, update details, and submit transactions with direct buyer approval. The system relies on structured browser tools rather than visual screenshots or reading standard web pages designed for human visitors.

New tools for developers

The update introduces three specific functions for agents:

• get_checkout to inspect the current order state
• update_checkout to change details like delivery addresses
• complete_checkout to place the final order after authorization

These functions operate through the Universal Commerce Protocol, a shared system designed to provide accurate product information and required purchase details. Major AI assistants such as Muse and Instinct already partner with the platform to support these automated shopping features.

Shopify staff product manager Gil Greenberg announced that the checkout support is rolling out to all eligible merchants on the platform.