Walmart and Google have announced a partnership that will enable shoppers to use Google's artificial intelligence assistant, Gemini, for easier product discovery and purchases from Walmart and Sam's Club. The collaboration was revealed by incoming Walmart CEO John Furner and Google CEO Sundar Pichai at the National Retail Federation's Big Show.
Specific details regarding the launch date and financial terms of the agreement were not disclosed. The new feature is planned to debut in the U.S. and subsequently expand to international markets.
This initiative aligns with Walmart's efforts to integrate AI into its digital strategy, responding to customers who utilize AI chatbots for shopping. Walmart previously established a partnership with OpenAI's ChatGPT in October, introducing an "Instant Checkout" feature for direct purchases within the AI chatbot. OpenAI has implemented similar Instant Checkout options with other retailers, including Etsy and various Shopify merchants. Walmart also maintains its proprietary AI chatbot, Sparky, on its app.
Walmart leadership has commented on the impact of AI on retail. John Furner stated that the shift to "agent-led commerce represents the next great evolution in retail," and noted that Walmart is "rewriting the retail playbook" to reduce the time between desire and acquisition. Sundar Pichai characterized AI adoption as a "transformative" development. David Guggina, Walmart U.S.'s chief ecommerce officer, indicated that agentic AI facilitates engaging customers earlier in their shopping journey and in more locations. Doug McMillon, the outgoing Walmart CEO, has also shared his view that AI is expected to impact "literally every job."