Walmart is introducing Agent Profiles, a new feature that allows customers to authorize AI agents for automated shopping. This initiative builds on the company’s recent push into artificial intelligence, including its Sparky AI agent and integrations with platforms like Muse, ChatGPT, and Gemini.
Launching next month, Agent Profiles will give shoppers a dedicated space to manage permissions for each AI agent. Customers can set spending limits or approve every purchase individually. The feature also lets users view AI-made purchases separately from their own transactions.
According to Walmart, the tools within Agent Profiles include clear controls and protections. Customers can shop through both Walmart and Sam’s Club using the apps and agents they prefer.
During the company’s second-quarter conference call, John David Rainey, executive vice president and CFO, highlighted Walmart’s focus on AI-driven experiences. He emphasized the company’s commitment to value, convenience, and speed while advancing its business model.
Walmart president and CEO John Furner explained how AI is making the company faster, more convenient, and personalized. He cited Sparky as an example, noting a 70% increase in users compared to last year. Customers using Sparky spend 40% more per order than those who don’t.
For instance, one customer asked Sparky for a weekly meal plan with high-protein options. Within seconds, the AI agent provided recipes, meal kits, and a one-click option to add ingredients. Sparky also recognized the customer’s recent purchases to avoid duplicates.
Furner described Walmart’s AI initiatives as focused on building trust. He stressed that the company’s approach is people-led and tech-powered, aiming to improve both the shopping experience and employee efficiency.
In practice, this means customers could delegate routine shopping tasks to AI agents, freeing up time for other priorities. For Walmart employees, AI tools like Sparky could reduce repetitive tasks, allowing them to focus on more complex customer needs.
Furner concluded by emphasizing the interconnected nature of Walmart’s current initiatives. “This isn’t about any single driver,” he said. “It’s about building a business where each advantage reinforces the next.”
