Google Weaves New Shopping Feature Into Search and Gemini

Core Insights - Google is innovating its shopping experience by integrating AI-powered features, allowing users to shop directly through its AI search mode and enabling retailers to offer products and discounts [2][3][8] Group 1: AI Integration in Shopping - Google is testing new ad formats in its search AI mode, allowing retailers to showcase products and enabling purchases from platforms like Etsy and Wayfair [2] - A new feature called Direct Offers will allow brands to provide discounts to potential customers within the AI shopping experience [2][3] - The company is collaborating with major retailers such as Walmart, Target, and Shopify to create a seamless checkout process within its AI products [8] Group 2: Investment and Market Trends - In 2023, Google, Meta, Microsoft, and Amazon are projected to spend a record $650 billion on AI-related initiatives [7] - Over 70% of consumers express willingness to use AI agents for shopping, indicating a growing acceptance of AI in commerce [9] - Research shows that consumers are increasingly comfortable with AI acting on their behalf, particularly for reducing friction in daily life and managing complexity [10]