Shopify debuts Canvas, a way to build online stores by chatting with AI

Shopify launched Canvas, a new AI-powered site builder that allows merchants to create and customize online stores by chatting with its AI agent, Sidekick. Unlike previous tools requiring code edits for customizations, Canvas enables real-time changes visible as actual code, allowing full interactivity and responsiveness previews. Sidekick can manipulate store files directly, simplifying theme architecture for easier AI-driven adjustments. While currently desktop-only and lacking support for third-party themes, app blocks, and translations, Shopify plans to add these features. Canvas aims to lower barriers for merchants without coding skills or developer budgets, joining other AI site builders like Wix and Squarespace in making online store creation more accessible.