Google AI Mode just crossed a critical threshold; it can now complete purchases through Instacart without consumers ever leaving the search interface. In today's episode, John breaks down what this means for eCommerce merchants alongside the EU's landmark ruling requiring Google to share search data with rival AI platforms starting in 2027. On the platform side, Shopify has introduced a mandatory mTLS certificate requirement for card-deposit endpoints with a hard October 15 deadline, timed explicitly for Black Friday readiness. Plus, two Google Ads changes that could quietly shift your campaign performance, and what Walmart's aggressive back-to-school pricing reveals about consumer sentiment heading into the second half of 2026.

• Google AI Mode adds Instacart integration, turning search into a transactional commerce platform

• EU orders Google to share search data with AI chatbot rivals from 2027

• Shopify mandates mTLS certificates for cardholder data deposits - deadline October 15, 2026

• Google expands Performance Max reporting and changes Local Inventory Ads defaults

• Walmart's back-to-school pricing hits lowest levels since 2019 as consumer spending drops

• QVC Group exits bankruptcy with a live social shopping strategy centred on TikTok

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