Save items from multiple retailers in one place with Google's new Universal Cart

Google has launched its Universal Cart feature for users in the United States, integrating the tool into both Google Search and the Gemini application. This release follows a preview of the technology at the company’s I/O event in May. The feature allows shoppers to save products from different online stores into one centralized list rather than managing separate carts on individual retailer websites. This aims to simplify the process of comparing items and tracking potential purchases across the web.

In plain English

Universal Cart functions as a single holding space for items you might want to buy. Instead of adding a shirt to a cart on one site and shoes to a cart on another, you add both to your Google account. The system remembers these items even if you leave the browser open or switch devices. It acts like a persistent wishlist that stays with you, so you do not have to search for the same products again when you are ready to complete your purchase.

The background

The tool was first shown during Google’s developer conference in May, where it was described as an intelligent shopping aid. Google has been expanding its role in e-commerce by introducing features like conversational product discovery in Search’s AI Mode. Another recent addition is the “Let Google Call” tool, which uses an AI agent to contact local stores to check inventory levels. These efforts reflect a broader industry trend where tech companies are building agents that can perform shopping tasks on behalf of users.

What changes now

US users can now add items to Universal Cart while using Google Search or the Gemini app. The system monitors the saved products and sends alerts if prices drop or if out-of-stock items become available again. It can also display relevant promotional codes found online. When ready to buy, users can pay through Google Wallet, which analyzes credit card perks to suggest the best payment method, or transfer the items to the merchant’s own checkout page to complete the transaction directly with the retailer.

Key terms explained

Universal Cart is a centralized digital list that aggregates products from various online stores into one view within a user’s Google account. It simplifies comparison shopping by removing the need to manage multiple retailer-specific carts. Agentic AI refers to software capable of performing multi-step tasks, such as browsing, saving items, and monitoring prices, without constant human direction. This technology allows the cart to actively track inventory and pricing changes automatically.

What to do and how to stay safe: Google

• Review your saved items in Universal Cart to ensure they match your actual shopping intentions.
• Check notification settings to control how often you receive alerts about price drops or restocks.
• Verify the payment method details in Google Wallet before using the suggested credit card perks.
• Monitor which retailers support the Universal Commerce Protocol to understand checkout compatibility.

General security guidance from the Vector Update newsroom. It is not confirmed advice from the organisations named in this story.

Frequently asked questions

Where can I use Google Universal Cart right now?

The tool is currently available to users in the United States through Google Search and the Gemini app.

Does Universal Cart support integration with Gmail and YouTube?

Google has plans to integrate Universal Cart with Gmail and YouTube, but no timeline has been announced yet.

How does checkout work with Universal Cart?

Users can pay via Google Wallet, which analyzes credit card perks, or transfer items to the merchant’s cart to checkout directly with the retailer.