Google announced updates to its Shopping platform, introducing a new tool called Universal Cart. Universal Cart aggregates purchases from various Google services, including search, YouTube, and Gmail, allowing users to manage their shopping in one location.
The system will utilize artificial intelligence to find the lowest prices, compare price trends, and check stock availability for added products. It is designed to anticipate potential issues, such as compatibility problems between components for custom PC builds, by flagging concerns before payment.
Universal Cart works with Google Wallet to recognize users’ preferred merchants and loyalty programs, suggesting opportunities for additional savings and maximizing point benefits. The seamless integration with retailers accepting Google Wallet includes well-known brands like Nike, Sephora, Target, Fenty, and Steve Madden.
Universal Cart will begin rolling out in summer 2023, initially available through Shopping, Search, and Gemini, with YouTube and Gmail expected to follow later in the year. Additionally, Google introduced the Universal Commerce Protocol (UCP) aimed at improving the online payment process between platforms and retailers.
UCP is set to launch in Canada and Australia in the coming months, with plans for its rollout to the UK afterward. Furthermore, the protocol will be integrated into YouTube in the US as part of the platform’s evolution into an online shopping channel.
