Google launches new standard for ai-driven commerce

Industry experts highlight agentic commerce as the next retail shift, facing challenges like payment glitches from failed credit checks. Google’s Universal Commerce Protocol (UCP), developed with Shopify, Target, Walmart, Etsy, and Wayfair, allows AI agents to transact without new credit checks, using pre-approved methods. UCP integrates Buy Now Pay Later (BNPL) by linking installments to existing credit cards, preserving revenue and control. A PYMNTS survey shows 61% of U.S. adults are open to AI recommending BNPL, with Gen Z even more interested. Merchants are encouraged to join UCP’s waitlist and adopt compatible infrastructure. UCP and its companion AP2 provide verifiable audit trails, ensuring payment certainty. This benefits banks by maintaining their credit role while reducing risk. As AI agents grow in commerce, reliable payments will be key to success. The Most Innovative Companies Awards deadline is Friday, October 2, at 11:59 p.m. PT.