What changed
Same-day catch-up: Google’s November 4 announcement starts rolling out direct checkout in AI Mode, Google Search’s conversational search experience, and the Gemini app in Canada. Eligible retailers include select Shopify merchants, Shoppers Drug Mart, Simons, and lululemon. This is a rollout, with no promise that every shopper or product is included. [1]
Google says payment uses Google Pay with saved Wallet details, and the retailer remains the seller. [1]
The wider retailer route comes later
Google plans simplified Universal Commerce Protocol integration in Merchant Center, its tool for managing product listings, next year. The protocol is a shared way for shopping software to communicate. The linked onboarding guide also lists Canadian merchant onboarding for next year. This is separate from the selected-retailer shopping rollout. [1] [2]
Our take
This could save a step when you have already chosen an item. Before confirming, match the seller, size, color, and total with what you intended to buy. For example, a winter-jacket comparison should end with the exact jacket and delivery charge you expect.
Retailers can use this time to check their product information and support process before wider onboarding becomes available. We have not tested checkout or merchant setup.