Home topics news Credit: Shopify News News Shopify’s update puts merchants in AI conversations on ChatGPT and Perplexity Yajush Gupta December 18, 2025 Shopify introduces Agentic Storefronts, putting merchant products directly into ChatGPT and Perplexity conversations. What’s happening : Shopify has released its Winter ’26 Edition, introducing more than 150 product updates centred on practical AI applications for merchants, developers and partners. Why this matters : These updates aim to streamline backend operations, from merchandising to day to day workflows, allowing businesses to focus resources on creativity and customer service rather than administrative tasks. Australian retailers navigating rising costs and shifting consumer behaviour have new tools to help level operational demands. Shopify has unveiled its Winter ’26 Edition, titled RenAIssance, featuring more than 150 product updates designed to remove friction from commerce operations. The release centres on practical AI applications that work behind the scenes rather than flashy automation. From generating custom admin apps through simple prompts to editing product photos directly in the file editor, the updates target specific pain points merchants face daily. “Australian retailers are operating in one of the most competitive and dynamic markets in the world,” says Shaun Broughton, Managing Director APAC and Japan at Shopify. “Consumer expectations are rising quickly, and merchants need tools that help them act on signals in real time whilst removing as much operational friction as possible.” The update positions Sidekick, Shopify’s AI assistant, as a proactive rather than reactive tool. Rather than waiting for merchants to ask questions, Sidekick