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Economy

Google and Walmart Team Up on AI Shopping, Unified Commerce Protocol, and Expanding Drone Delivery

by Daniel Foster - Senior Editor, Economy
written by Daniel Foster - Senior Editor, Economy

Breaking: Google and Walmart Unveil AI‑Driven Retail Push at NRF Big Show

Table of Contents

In New York City, leaders from Google and Walmart outlined a bold vision for the future of shopping at the National Retail Federation’s Big Show. google chief executive Sundar Pichai and incoming Walmart U.S. chief executive John Furner described how artificial intelligence will reshape search, recommendations and checkout—starting with tighter links between their two ecosystems.

Shopping goes AI: Walmart and Sam’s Club products arrive in Gemini

Shoppers will soon be able to buy Walmart and Sam’s Club items through Google’s Gemini chat assistant. gemini will access Walmart’s product assortments and live pricing to show what is in stock and available.Loyal Walmart and Sam’s Club members can connect their accounts to Gemini to tailor recommendations based on past purchases.

Executives pitched a future in which product discovery is highly personalized and convenient, with shopping experiences unfolding inside AI conversations and checkout completed within the same dialogue.

A new standard for retail AI: Worldwide Commerce Protocol

Google introduced the Universal Commerce Protocol (UCP),a framework meant to standardize how retailers’ AI tools interact with customers. Developed with Walmart, along with partners including Shopify, Etsy, Wayfair, and Target, UCP is designed to work with existing agent protocols while keeping the retailer in control of the customer relationship.

The first use case places a native checkout button inside Google’s AI tools and Gemini. In practice,a chat with a large language model could surface product suggestions,with retailers using UCP to personalize messages and drive signups for loyalty programs. Existing shoppers might see tailored offers,and purchases could be completed in the chat using Google Pay. The goal: retailers shape the relationship at every step while remaining the merchant of record.

Gemini’s growth and the evolving AI shopping landscape

Google’s Gemini platform continues to expand, with more than 650 million monthly users. The service now integrates a Shopping Graph featuring over 50 billion product listings that track real‑time pricing, reviews and inventory. Industry observers note that Gemini is gaining ground in a competitive AI‑assisted search space as rivals evolve their own chat and shopping aids.

Market data show a shift in AI assistant usage,with studies indicating Google’s Gemini gaining share even as other players consolidate. The broader trend underscores a pivot from traditional search toward AI‑driven commerce experiences.

Drone deliveries: Expanding Walmart’s Wing program

Walmart is widening its drone delivery program with Google’s Wing, extending service to 150 additional locations for a total of 270 sites. The expansion broadens access in markets including Miami and Los Angeles beyond current cities such as Dallas, Orlando and Atlanta.

In Atlanta, roughly half of Wing customers use the service more than once, and about half of deliveries arrive within 20 minutes. Executives emphasized that regulatory and technical challenges remain, but the effort aims to move from coast to coast.

key facts at a glance

initiative Partners What it does Scope
Gemini shopping integration google, Walmart, Sam’s Club Allows purchases from Walmart/ Sam’s Club inside Gemini; live assortments and pricing Rolling out; loyalty linking supported
Universal Commerce Protocol (UCP) Google, Walmart, Shopify, Etsy, Wayfair, Target Global standard for retail AI interactions; native checkout; retailer control remains First use in AI Mode and Gemini
drone delivery expansion Walmart, Wing (Google) Broadens drone delivery reach; faster, more locations Up to 270 locations; new markets include Miami and Los Angeles

What this means for shoppers and retailers

The alliance signals a future where shopping assistance, recommendations and checkout are increasingly embedded in AI conversations. For retailers, UCP could offer a controlled pathway to personalized marketing while preserving the merchant relationship. For consumers, the combination of real‑time product data, loyalty benefits and seamless payments could streamline purchasing across channels.

As AI‑driven commerce evolves, expect ongoing refinements in privacy, data usage and retailer accountability. The NRF Big Show showcased how tech platforms and retailers will test new models that balance convenience with trust.

Reader questions

  1. How comfortable are you with shopping and paying inside an AI chat? What would make you trust this approach more?
  2. What privacy protections do you expect as retailers use your shopping data to tailor offers and recommendations?

share your thoughts in the comments and tell us which part of this AI‑driven retail shift excites or concerns you the most.

Disclaimer: This article provides a summary of announced plans and demonstrations at the NRF Big Show. Availability and features may vary by market and time.



Google & Walmart: AI‑Driven Shopping, Unified Commerce Protocol, and the next‑Gen Drone Delivery Network

Published on 2026/01/11 19:34:18 – archyde.com

AI‑Powered shopping Experience

How Google’s generative AI meets Walmart’s retail data

  1. Personalized product recommendations
    • Google Cloud’s Gemini 2.0 models analyze real‑time purchase history, search intent, and visual cues from the Walmart app.
    • The AI generates a “shopping carousel” tailored to each shopper’s budget, diet preferences, and local inventory.
  1. Voice‑first checkout via Google Assistant
    • Users can say, “Hey Google, add organic almond milk to my Walmart cart,” and the request is instantly validated against store stock.
    • Seamless handoff to Walmart’s payment gateway ensures PCI‑compliant processing without leaving the voice session.
  1. Visual search integration
    • Snap a photo of a product in‑store; Google Lens identifies it, shows price comparisons, and offers “Buy with One Tap” directly from the Walmart app.

real‑world example: During the 2025 “Back‑to‑School” promotion, Walmart reported a 23 % lift in conversion rates for shoppers who engaged with Gemini‑driven recommendations on mobile devices. (Walmart Press Release, 2025)

Unified Commerce Protocol (UCP)

A cross‑industry standard for omnichannel consistency

  • What is UCP?

A jointly‑developed API framework that synchronizes inventory, pricing, and loyalty data across online, mobile, and physical stores in real time.

  • Key components
  • Universal Cart object (UCO): One cart that follows the shopper from Google Search to a Walmart pickup lane.
  • Event‑Driven Sync Engine: Powered by google Cloud Pub/Sub, updates stock levels in milliseconds.
  • Secure Token Exchange: OAuth 2.1 with zero‑knowledge proof ensures privacy‑first data sharing.
  • benefits for merchants
    1. Reduced cart abandonment – shoppers never lose items when switching devices.
    2. Accurate “Buy‑Online‑Pick‑Up‑In‑Store” (BOPIS) fulfillment – inventory is reflected instantly across all channels.
    3. Streamlined loyalty integration – Walmart+ points are awarded automatically, regardless of the entry point.

Expanding drone Delivery

From pilot programs to a nation‑wide aerial logistics network

Phase Milestones Impact
2024 – Test‑Bed Expansion Collaboration with Zipline, Flytrex, and Google’s Project Wing for 150‑km radius trials in Arkansas and California. Demonstrated 95 % on‑time delivery for grocery essentials.
2025 – Regulatory Approval FAA grants “Part 107 Plus” certification for multi‑payload drones operating beyond visual line‑of‑sight (BVLOS). Enables continuous night‑time deliveries in rural markets.
2026 – Commercial Rollout Integration of Google Maps AI routing with Walmart’s fulfillment centers; 3,200 drones deployed across 12 U.S. regions. Expected to cut last‑mile costs by 38 % and achieve sub‑30‑minute delivery for high‑priority items.

– AI‑optimized route planning

Google’s geospatial AI predicts wind patterns, traffic congestion, and dynamic no‑fly zones, recalculating routes in real time.

  • Safety and compliance
  • Onboard computer vision detects obstacles and executes autonomous evasive maneuvers.
  • End‑to‑end encryption secures payload data, complying with CISA and GDPR for cross‑border deliveries.

Case study: In July 2025, Walmart’s “Fresh‑to‑Your‑Door” pilot delivered 4,600 perishable orders via drones in the Dallas‑Fort Worth area, achieving a 99.2 % freshness rating (walmart Labs, 2025).

benefits for Retailers & Consumers

  • Faster purchase cycles – AI recommendation → voice add‑to‑cart → instant drone dispatch.
  • Higher inventory turnover – Real‑time UCP sync reduces overstock and out‑of‑stock scenarios.
  • Lower carbon footprint – Electric drones replace up to 15 % of delivery truck miles, cutting CO₂ emissions by ~0.4 kg per package.

Practical Tips for Merchants Implementing the Partnership

  1. Leverage Google Cloud’s AI Marketplace
    • start with pre‑trained retail models (e.g., demand forecasting, image tagging) and fine‑tune on Walmart SKU data.
  1. Adopt the Unified Commerce SDK
    • Integrate the UCO library into your existing POS system within 4‑6 weeks; Google provides sandbox environments for QA.
  1. Prepare for drone fulfillment
    • Map high‑density “drone zones” around fulfillment hubs.
    • Use Walmart’s drone‑Ready Packaging Guidelines (lightweight, insulated, QR‑coded) to ensure smooth handoff.
  1. Monitor KPI dashboards
    • Track metrics such as AI conversion lift,UCP sync latency,and drone delivery success rate through Google Data Studio templates.

Future Outlook

  • AI‑driven dynamic pricing: Combining real‑time competitor data from Google Shopping with Walmart’s margin models to auto‑adjust prices.
  • Hyper‑local micro‑fulfillment: Mini warehouse pods powered by autonomous robots and serviced by drones for sub‑10‑minute delivery windows.
  • Cross‑retailer data consortium: Extending UCP beyond Walmart to include other major grocers, creating a shared “Retail Data Lake” for industry‑wide AI insights.

For the latest updates on the Google‑Walmart partnership, subscribe to the Archyde newsletter and follow our real‑time technology tracker.

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Economy

Global demonstrations and active diplomacy mark a growing agenda in solidarity with Venezuela

by Daniel Foster - Senior Editor, Economy
written by Daniel Foster - Senior Editor, Economy

Global Outcry: Protests Surge in Support of Maduro, Venezuela Denounces US ‘Imperialism’ – Breaking News

The world is witnessing a wave of demonstrations as supporters of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and First Lady Cilia Flores take to the streets, vehemently rejecting what they describe as “imperialist interference” in Venezuela’s sovereign affairs. From Caracas to Los Angeles, and from Lebanon to Norway, a chorus of voices is demanding respect for Venezuela’s autonomy and the return of its leaders. This surge in international solidarity comes as Venezuela intensifies its diplomatic efforts, led by Foreign Minister Yván Gil, to counter what it calls US aggression. This is a developing story, optimized for Google News and SEO to bring you the latest updates instantly.

International Demonstrations: A United Front

The protests aren’t confined to Latin America. Political parties in Lebanon and Palestine have publicly condemned the US government’s actions, calling for the immediate return of President Maduro and his wife. In Europe, members of France’s France Insoumise party echoed these sentiments, denouncing “imperialist intervention.” Citizens in Norway and Spain (Galicia) have also mobilized, expressing their solidarity with the Venezuelan cause. Even in the United States, protests have taken place in Los Angeles, demonstrating a diverse range of international concern. Cuba, a long-standing ally of Venezuela, saw widespread demonstrations rejecting US policies and demanding the leaders’ return. Mexico’s social movements also joined the global wave of support, emphasizing Venezuela’s sovereignty.

Venezuela Mobilizes: A Nation United

Within Venezuela, the response has been equally fervent. Massive marches have been organized across the country, from the capital Caracas to states like Miranda, Monagas, Zulia, Amazonas, Nueva Esparta, Trujillo, Carabobo, and Apure. Over 25,000 people participated in a “Great March for Peace” in Apure state alone. Beyond the marches, citizens are expressing their support through artistic displays, with 40 murals being created nationwide, alongside letter-writing campaigns and the occupation of public spaces. These actions are fueled by a strong sense of national pride and a determination to defend Venezuela’s independence.

Bolivarian Peace Diplomacy in Action

While protests fill the streets, Venezuela is actively engaging in “Bolivarian Peace Diplomacy.” Foreign Minister Yván Gil has been in contact with representatives from the Netherlands and Germany, addressing bilateral cooperation and emphasizing the importance of international law. Discussions with the Dutch Chargé d’Affaires focused on the consequences of recent bombings that reportedly resulted in civilian casualties. The meetings with German officials reaffirmed the need for respect for Venezuela’s sovereignty. This diplomatic push underscores Venezuela’s commitment to resolving tensions through peaceful means and upholding international norms.

The Historical Context: Venezuela and US Relations

The current situation is rooted in a complex history of US-Venezuela relations. Venezuela possesses the world’s largest proven oil reserves, and its political trajectory has often clashed with US foreign policy objectives. Over the years, the US has imposed sanctions on Venezuelan officials and entities, citing concerns over human rights and democratic governance. Venezuela, in turn, has accused the US of attempting to destabilize the country and undermine its socialist government. Understanding this historical backdrop is crucial to interpreting the current events and the motivations behind the international support for Maduro. For readers seeking a deeper dive, resources from organizations like the Council on Foreign Relations and the Brookings Institution offer valuable insights into the evolving dynamics of this relationship. SEO optimization ensures this information is readily accessible through Google News searches.

President in charge, Delcy Rodríguez, expressed gratitude for the global demonstrations, confidently asserting that the combined efforts of the people and the Bolivarian Peace Diplomacy will ultimately overcome what she termed the “threat of North American imperialism.” As the situation unfolds, Archyde will continue to provide up-to-the-minute coverage, offering a comprehensive and nuanced perspective on this critical story. Stay tuned to Archyde.com for the latest developments and in-depth analysis.

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Economy

Guyana Business Outlook 2026: Sales & Growth Forecasts

by Daniel Foster - Senior Editor, Economy
written by Daniel Foster - Senior Editor, Economy

Ciudad Guayana’s Entertainment Sector Faces a January Slump – And What It Signals for 2026

A surprising 30% drop in foot traffic across Ciudad Guayana’s restaurants and nightlife venues in the first week of January 2026 is forcing businesses to adapt – and quickly. While some establishments are temporarily pausing operations or increasing prices to cope with economic uncertainty, the situation reveals a potentially larger shift in consumer behavior and a need for innovative strategies to thrive in a challenging market.

The Early 2026 Chill: Restaurants and Fast Food Feel the Pinch

The start of the year has been unexpectedly slow for food businesses in Ciudad Guayana. Enrique Alarcón, manager of a fast-food restaurant in Los Olivos, noted the sluggish performance despite the restaurant being less than six months old. This isn’t an isolated case. A popular Alta Vista food stand publicly attributed price increases to rising supplier costs, aiming to maintain quality amidst economic pressures. The trend of nightlife venues and eateries adjusting to a slower-than-expected start highlights a broader economic sensitivity impacting local businesses.

Regional Disparities: Where is the Impact Most Acute?

The impact isn’t uniform across the city. While businesses in shopping centers and entertainment hubs like cinemas – maintaining schedules until 10 PM – appear relatively stable, establishments in areas like behind the Movistar Tower in Alta Vista and the Río Negro region are facing more significant challenges. Several businesses in these areas have yet to reopen after the holidays, with others citing “vacation” as the reason, masking underlying financial concerns. This suggests a localized economic vulnerability, potentially linked to specific demographics or spending patterns.

Nightlife Adapts, But Uncertainty Lingers

Despite the overall slowdown, nightlife venues are attempting to maintain a semblance of normalcy. Nightclubs are planning to resume regular hours by January 10th, signaling a commitment to the entertainment sector. However, this “normalization” is largely dependent on increased consumer spending in the coming weeks. The expectation of a cash flow rebound is coupled with the acknowledgment that price increases are now a necessity for profitability. This delicate balance between maintaining affordability and ensuring business viability will be crucial.

The Price Hike Dilemma: A Short-Term Fix or a Long-Term Risk?

Increasing prices is a common response to rising costs, but it carries the risk of further deterring customers. Businesses must carefully consider price elasticity – how sensitive demand is to price changes – to avoid exacerbating the problem. A study by the National Restaurant Association found that excessive price increases can lead to a 15-20% decline in customer visits, demonstrating the potential downside of this strategy. Smart pricing strategies, such as value-added promotions or tiered pricing, may be more effective in the long run.

Looking Ahead: Trends and Strategies for 2026

The current situation in Ciudad Guayana isn’t simply a temporary January slump. It’s a potential indicator of evolving consumer habits and a more cautious economic outlook. Several key trends are likely to shape the future of the entertainment and hospitality sectors:

  • Experiential Dining & Entertainment: Consumers are increasingly seeking unique and memorable experiences. Businesses that can offer more than just a meal or a drink – think live music, themed events, or interactive entertainment – will be better positioned to attract customers.
  • Hyper-Localization & Community Focus: Supporting local businesses and fostering a sense of community will become increasingly important. Businesses that actively engage with their local communities and offer tailored experiences will gain a competitive edge.
  • Digital Integration & Convenience: Online ordering, delivery services, and digital loyalty programs are no longer optional – they’re essential. Seamless digital experiences will be crucial for attracting and retaining customers.
  • Flexible Business Models: The ability to adapt quickly to changing market conditions will be paramount. Businesses may need to explore alternative revenue streams, such as pop-up events or subscription services, to diversify their income.

The businesses that proactively embrace these trends and prioritize customer value will be the ones that not only survive but thrive in the evolving landscape of Ciudad Guayana’s entertainment and hospitality sectors. The coming weeks will be a critical test of resilience and adaptability for entrepreneurs in the region.

What strategies are you seeing work best for businesses navigating these economic headwinds? Share your insights in the comments below!

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Economy

Dollar vs. Peso: Exchange Rate Today, Jan 11

by Daniel Foster - Senior Editor, Economy
written by Daniel Foster - Senior Editor, Economy

USD/MXN Outlook: Navigating Uncertainty as Peso Resilience Faces New Tests

The Mexican peso has demonstrated surprising strength in recent months, even as geopolitical tensions and fluctuating US economic data create a volatile global landscape. But can this resilience hold? As the dollar trades around 17.97 pesos, a slight dip from previous levels, understanding the forces at play – from Federal Reserve policy to potential US intervention south of the border – is crucial for investors and businesses alike. This isn’t just about exchange rates; it’s about the future of economic stability in a region facing increasing complexity.

The Shifting Sands of US Monetary Policy

A key driver of the peso’s recent performance is the evolving outlook for US interest rates. A weaker-than-expected US employment report has fueled expectations that the Federal Reserve may pause its rate-hiking cycle. This, in turn, reduces the attractiveness of dollar-denominated assets, lessening the pressure on the peso. However, this is a delicate balance. Any indication of renewed US economic strength could quickly reverse this trend, prompting the Fed to resume tightening monetary policy and strengthening the dollar.

Expert Insight: “The market is hyper-sensitive to any data point coming out of the US right now,” explains Dr. Elena Ramirez, a senior economist at Global Finance Analytics. “A single strong jobs report could trigger a significant shift in sentiment, leading to a rapid appreciation of the dollar against the peso.”

Trump’s Rhetoric and the Risk of Intervention

Beyond economic fundamentals, political rhetoric is injecting a significant dose of uncertainty into the equation. Former President Trump’s recent statements regarding potential “ground” operations against drug cartels in Mexico have rattled markets. While the feasibility and legality of such actions are questionable, the mere suggestion raises concerns about a potential escalation of tensions and a disruption of trade and investment flows. Mexico’s firm stance against any violation of its sovereignty, as articulated by Claudia Sheinbaum, adds another layer of complexity.

This isn’t simply a hypothetical risk. The potential for US military incursions, even limited ones, in neighboring Venezuela has already increased regional risk perception and exchange rate volatility. The peso, while currently stable, is vulnerable to any perceived increase in geopolitical instability.

The Cartel Factor: A Growing Threat to Economic Stability?

The underlying issue driving Trump’s rhetoric – the escalating violence and power of Mexican drug cartels – is a genuine threat to Mexico’s economic stability. While direct military intervention is unlikely, increased pressure from the US to address the issue could lead to policy changes that impact the peso. Furthermore, continued cartel activity disrupts supply chains, increases security costs for businesses, and deters foreign investment.

Current Exchange Rates: A Snapshot (January 11, 2026)

As of today, January 11, 2026 (a non-business day for banks), the dollar trades around 17.97 pesos. Here’s a breakdown of rates at major Mexican banks:

  • affirm: Purchase: 17.10, Sale: 18.50
  • Azteca Bank: Purchase: 17.55, Sale: 18.64
  • Banorte: Purchase: 16.80, Sale: 18.30
  • BBVA: Purchase: 16.93, Sale: 18.46
  • Banamex: Purchase: 17.38, Sale: 18.45

These rates serve as a reference point for exchange houses and electronic platforms, but can vary depending on the specific provider and transaction volume.

Looking Ahead: Potential Scenarios for USD/MXN

Several scenarios could unfold in the coming months, each with different implications for the USD/MXN exchange rate:

  • Scenario 1: Continued US Economic Weakness. If the US economy continues to slow, the Federal Reserve is likely to maintain a dovish stance, supporting the peso. We could see the USD/MXN rate fall towards 17.50 or even lower.
  • Scenario 2: US Economic Rebound. A resurgence in US economic growth would likely lead to higher interest rates and a stronger dollar, potentially pushing the USD/MXN rate back towards 18.50 or higher.
  • Scenario 3: Escalating Geopolitical Tensions. Increased tensions between the US and Mexico, or further instability in the region, would likely trigger a flight to safety, benefiting the dollar and weakening the peso. This could see the rate spike above 19.00.

Did you know? The Mexican peso is considered a risk-on currency, meaning it tends to perform well when global risk appetite is high and investors are willing to take on more risk. Conversely, it often weakens during periods of uncertainty and risk aversion.

Implications for Businesses and Investors

The fluctuating USD/MXN exchange rate presents both opportunities and challenges for businesses and investors. Companies with significant exposure to the Mexican market need to carefully manage their currency risk. Hedging strategies, such as forward contracts and options, can help mitigate potential losses. For investors, the peso’s potential for appreciation offers attractive returns, but it’s crucial to be aware of the inherent risks.

Pro Tip: Diversify your portfolio and consider incorporating Mexican assets into your investment strategy, but do so with a clear understanding of the risks involved. Consult with a financial advisor to determine the best approach for your individual circumstances.

Frequently Asked Questions

What factors typically strengthen the Mexican peso?

Generally, a strong global economy, high oil prices (Mexico is a significant oil exporter), and a dovish stance by the US Federal Reserve tend to strengthen the Mexican peso. Positive investor sentiment towards Mexico also plays a crucial role.

How does US-Mexico relations impact the peso?

US-Mexico relations have a significant impact on the peso. Positive relations and stable trade agreements typically support the peso, while tensions and threats of trade wars or intervention can weaken it.

Is now a good time to buy Mexican pesos?

That depends on your risk tolerance and investment horizon. The peso currently offers potential upside, but it’s also subject to significant volatility. Careful analysis and consideration of the factors discussed above are essential.

Where can I find reliable exchange rate information?

Reputable financial websites, such as Bloomberg, Reuters, and XE.com, provide up-to-date exchange rate information. You can also check the websites of major Mexican banks.

The USD/MXN exchange rate remains a complex interplay of economic forces and political realities. While the peso has shown resilience, navigating the uncertainties ahead will require careful monitoring and a proactive approach. Staying informed about the latest developments and understanding the potential implications is key to making sound financial decisions.

What are your predictions for the USD/MXN exchange rate in the coming year? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

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