Google just introduced the Universal Commerce Protocol (#UCP), a new open-source framework designed to let #AIagents handle the entire #shopping journey — built alongside major retailers like Shopify, Walmart, Target, and Etsy.
The details:
UCP creates shared infrastructure for AI systems to manage product discovery, checkout, and post-purchase support across different platforms and agents.
Google is adding native checkout to AI Mode in Search and the Gemini app, letting users complete purchases mid-conversation via Google Pay.
A new Business Agent puts branded assistants directly in Search, with the ability to personalize interactions, provide offers, and access customer insights.
Over 20 companies endorsed UCP at launch, including Visa, Mastercard, Stripe, Macy’s, Best Buy, and American Express.
No specific #travel companies yet but Stripe and Adyen are included, which are most common payment providers in our industry.
How will this affect #hotels?