While Amazon blocks AI agents, Walmart rolls out the welcome mat

“Amazon has barred AI agents from making purchases on its platform, prompting Walmart to launch its Agent Gateway, a new server that lets approved AI agents search inventory and buy on behalf of users without exposing personal data. The gateway, built on Anthropic’s MCP protocol, will support both Walmart.com and Sam’s Club, and introduces Agent Profiles that let shoppers set spending limits and approve transactions. By opening its doors to AI commerce, Walmart positions itself as a pioneer in the emerging agent economy, potentially reshaping how U.S. consumers shop online, driving competition, and raising new privacy and security considerations. Expert Analysis: Walmart’s proactive embrace of AI agents could accelerate the mainstream adoption of autonomous shopping, forcing other retailers to innovate or risk losing market share. The new controls also set a precedent for consumer data protection in a landscape where AI agents increasingly mediate purchases.”