Shopify's Spring Editions 2026 introduces over 150 updates, transforming the platform into an AI-powered shopping ecosystem. Key highlights include Sidekick's ability to connect with other apps, mobile theme editing, an AI sales associate for customer chat, product visibility in AI chatbots via Shopify Aentic, built-in A/B testing, and the Shopify AI Toolkit for deep store automation via Claude. The video explains how these features can change the way merchants run their businesses.
A short editorial from the VEONIB team on why this content matters.
Shopify's Spring Editions 2026 cements the platform as an AI-first commerce ecosystem, with updates spanning customer service, marketing, and store automation.
Unlike prior updates that focused on individual AI tools, this release weaves AI into every layer—from Sidekick app integration to AI-powered audience targeting via Aentic—creating a unified, automated shopping experience.
Merchants should immediately enable the AI sales associate, set up A/B testing, and explore the AI Toolkit to automate repetitive tasks and improve conversion rates.
An AI assistant for store owners that can now integrate with third-party apps.
A tool that sends product data to AI chatbots like ChatGPT for direct purchase.
A chatbot that allows customers to interact and buy directly via chat on your store.
A free built-in feature to split test themes, checkout, and account pages.
A set of skills allowing AI models like Claude to control and automate Shopify tasks.
An AI assistant that can be connected via AI Toolkit to perform SEO audits and store changes.
How do I enable the AI sales associate on my store?
Go to Shopify Inbox, turn on 'Put an AI sales associate on your store' in settings. It's free and allows customers to buy directly via chat.
How to set up Shopify Aentic?
Install the Shopify Aentic app from the Shopify App Store, then configure it to categorize products and send them to AI chatbots like ChatGPT.
How does Shopify Sidekick integrate with other apps?
Sidekick can connect to apps like Klaviyo and Judge.me via an integration. You authorize the connection, then ask Sidekick to pull data from those apps.
Can I edit my theme on mobile using Sidekick?
Yes, open your Shopify store on mobile, go to Edit theme, and use Sidekick to make changes like altering colors or adding a countdown timer.
What is the Shopify AI Toolkit and how do I use it?
It's a set of skills that allows AI models like Claude to directly control your Shopify store. You connect it via Visual Studio Code and can automate tasks like SEO audits.
How do I run an A/B test in Shopify?
Go to Markets > Rollouts, create a rollout, choose theme testing, select your live theme and variant, set a 50/50 split, and launch. Monitor results in the same dashboard.
Can customers use Shopify Aentic to buy products from ChatGPT?
Yes, once Aentic is set up, your products appear in AI chatbots. Users can click and purchase directly without leaving the chat interface.
Is the A/B testing feature free in Shopify?
Yes, it is built directly into Shopify at no extra cost, eliminating the need for third-party apps.
How many A/B tests should I run simultaneously?
It's recommended to run only one or two tests at a time to clearly identify which changes affect performance.
Can AI implement changes automatically from an SEO audit?
Yes, using Shopify AI Toolkit with Claude, you can ask it to implement the audit findings. However, you should review and approve changes before applying them.