Shopify launches AI store builder in latest update
Shopify is doubling down on artificial intelligence. At its latest Edition launch event, the e-commerce giant announced a suite of AI-powered features aimed at helping merchants streamline the creation and management of their online stores — no coding required.
The updates include a new AI store builder, enhanced capabilities for Sidekick, Shopify’s AI commerce assistant, and a public theme called Horizon with built-in AI design tools. These features are part of Shopify's growing effort to make store creation more intuitive and accessible, especially for entrepreneurs and small businesses.
AI Store Builder: From Prompt to Storefront
At the core of the announcement is Shopify’s new AI store builder, which allows users to generate a functioning online store with a single prompt. For example, a merchant could type "tennis gear and stylish athleisure," and the AI will build a tailored storefront complete with images, layout, and copy. From there, the merchant can fine-tune the design in the editor.
This tool is designed to speed up the launch process, giving merchants more time to focus on personalization and product strategy.
“Horizon” Theme and Customizable AI Blocks
Shopify also debuted Horizon, a new public theme available in its Theme Store. Horizon is the first to include “Theme Blocks”, modular components merchants can use to customize the look and feel of their site — no technical expertise needed.
These blocks can be further personalized using AI. Want a banner with animated text and a product image? Just describe it or upload a reference, and the system generates the necessary code and design. It can even generate custom images on the fly.
Sidekick Gets a Major Upgrade
Sidekick, Shopify’s built-in AI assistant introduced in December 2024, is getting more interactive. Merchants can now talk to Sidekick via voice chat, and the assistant will respond out loud — a big step forward in accessibility and hands-free use.
Another new feature: screen sharing. Users can now collaborate with Sidekick to walk through processes like finding tariff rates or adjusting store settings. These features are now also available through the Shopify mobile app.
Since its broader release, Sidekick has seen rapid adoption, with monthly active users more than doubling in the first half of 2025, according to Shopify.
A Strategic AI Bet
The flurry of AI enhancements aligns with Shopify CEO Tobi Lütke’s recent internal message hinting that AI could enable the company to stay leaner while still innovating rapidly. The latest tools suggest Shopify sees AI not just as an add-on, but as core to the future of commerce.
As competition in the e-commerce platform space intensifies, Shopify’s investment in AI may prove a key differentiator — especially for merchants looking for speed, simplicity, and scale without needing deep technical know-how.
