this post was submitted on 14 Jan 2026
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108
Google Denies AI Shopping Will Hike Prices — Critics Warn Users May Lose Control (www.ibtimes.co.uk)
submitted 2 weeks ago* (last edited 2 weeks ago) by throws_lemy@lemmy.nz to c/technology@lemmy.world
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Google has firmly rejected allegations from a prominent consumer advocate that its forthcoming Universal Commerce Protocol (UCP) for AI-powered shopping agents could enable data-driven overcharging. The claims, sparked by a viral social media post, have ignited debate over privacy and pricing in the era of artificial intelligence.

Lindsay Owens, executive director of the Groundwork Collaborative, warned that the protocol integrates shopping into Google's AI tools like Search and Gemini, potentially using chat data for 'personalised upselling' to inflate prices. The tech giant, however, insists the features are designed to enhance user choice and value, not exploitation.

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[–] paraphrand@lemmy.world 6 points 2 weeks ago (1 children)

Just tell us how you are going to prevent this abuse, and how your policies forbid it. It’s easy Google. Just do that and you will quiet all concerns.

[–] ExcessShiv@lemmy.dbzer0.com 3 points 1 week ago* (last edited 1 week ago)

I mean, not really...their policies are subject to change at any time to whatever they see fit. Their track record doesn't exactly inspire confidence that they won't abuse it.