Google is introducing what it"s calling a "major AI shopping update" just ahead of the holiday shopping season. This update brings features like conversational product searches, automated store calls to check inventory, and even an AI agent that can purchase items for you when they go on sale.
AI Mode has been updated to handle shopping queries in a much more conversational way. You can now describe what you want just by speaking, without needing to click on filters or find the perfect keywords.
For example, you can say: "cozy sweaters for happy hour in warm autumn colors." In response, the AI will pull up details like price, review, and inventory info, presenting them as shoppable images or even a comparison table if you are deciding between different moisturizers.
AI mode was introduced back in March this year as a more advanced, fully conversational search experience powered by a custom version of Gemini 2.5. The feature can handle complex questions and hold a conversation to refine results. The feature recently made its way to the Chrome browser on both iOS and Android devices, as a button on the "New Tab" page, right next to the Incognito button.
In the Gemini app, you can now ask a shopping-related question and get useful product suggestions directly in the chat. The app now provides shoppable product listings, comparison tables, and pricing from different retailers. This is rolling out to all Gemini users in the U.S.
In Search (for US users), there"s now a button that says "Let Google Call," powered by Google Duplex (and Gemini). If you are looking for a specific product nearby, you can tap this button and Google"s AI will directly call the store and ask about stock, price, and current promotions on your behalf. You will get the answers in an email or text. This feature is available in categories like toys, health and beauty, and electronics.
Another upgrade coming to Search is an agentic checkout feature that helps you get an item at a specific price. After you set a price tracker for an item, you will get a notification when the price drops.
For certain retailers, Google will now give you the option to have its AI buy the item for you using Google Pay. The system will always ask for your permission before completing the purchase. This will help you track deals on products from eligible merchants, which include Wayfair, Chewy, and Quince.