Google adds in-chat purchases to Gemini and Search AI Mode in Canada

Google has launched a feature in Canada that lets users find products and complete payments directly inside its Gemini AI chatbot and the AI Mode of Google Search, according to BNN Bloomberg. Supported products initially include items from Lululemon, Shoppers Drug Mart, La Maison Simons and some Shopify sellers.

Users describe a product's style, color or features in natural language, and the AI suggests matching items. Purchases from partner retailers can be completed without visiting the retailer's shopping site, though the transaction only goes ahead based on the user's choice and approval.

Payments run through Google Pay, using payment methods and shipping details stored in Google Wallet. Google said the retailer, not the company, is responsible for selling the product and for processing orders, shipping and returns.

At launch, only one product can be bought at a time; a multi-item purchase feature is planned for later. The system is built on the Universal Commerce Protocol (UCP), an open standard Google developed with the retail industry to connect AI services, sellers and payment systems.

Sellers to get direct integration in 2027

Google plans to let sellers integrate payment features directly in its Merchant Center product management system starting in 2027, and intends to add customer reward benefits such as points during the purchase process in the future.

Google developed UCP together with the retail industry, and according to a Google survey cited in the background, 59% of Canadian holiday shoppers said they plan to use AI tools during shopping. OpenAI and Meta are also expanding purchase features through their AI platforms.