Walmart launches AI shopping agents for automated purchases

Walmart has introduced a suite of artificial intelligence tools designed to allow AI agents to browse, select, and complete purchases on behalf of customers. The rollout features the Walmart Agent Gateway and Agent Profiles, which are expected to launch next month.

The Agent Gateway will allow external AI assistants, including ChatGPT, Google Gemini, and Meta’s Muse, to connect directly to Walmart and Sam’s Club systems to search for products and finalize orders. To manage these interactions, Agent Profiles will allow shoppers to authorize specific AI agents, track separate purchase histories, set spending limits, and revoke access at any time.

Walmart has implemented security measures to ensure customers remain in control, noting that AI agents are blocked from accessing payment card data or changing payment methods. The tools will be available to all Walmart account holders without requiring a Walmart+ membership. This initiative follows reports that Amazon has sought to limit outside AI shopping agents from operating on its platform.