Walmart has announced a partnership with OpenAI that allows customers to make purchases using ChatGPT. The agreement brings artificial intelligence into retail transactions.
The deal enables users to buy products directly on the ChatGPT platform through the Instant Checkout tool. ChatGPT will also be integrated into the search functions of Walmart and Sam’s Club websites, where customers can interact conversationally while browsing or purchasing items.
Walmart said the initiative changes the retail experience from reactive to proactive. Its AI systems can learn, plan, and predict to help customers anticipate their needs.
The company stated that the collaboration builds on its current use of AI in several areas, including improving product catalogues, optimising customer service response times, and promoting AI literacy among employees.
Investors responded positively to the announcement. Walmart’s shares rose 5% on Tuesday, reaching their highest level this year. The company’s stock has gained more than 18% since the start of 2025, bringing its market capitalisation to around $854 billion.
The partnership supports OpenAI’s strategy to expand revenue streams linked to ChatGPT. Backed by Microsoft and led by CEO Sam Altman, OpenAI has become the world’s most valuable start-up, with an estimated valuation of $500 billion, surpassing SpaceX and ByteDance, the parent company of TikTok.
As part of its growth strategy, OpenAI has signed agreements with major technology firms, including Nvidia, Broadcom, and AMD. Under its deal with AMD, OpenAI could acquire up to 10% of the chipmaker’s equity if certain targets are met.
“For many years, e-commerce experiences have been defined by a search bar and a long list of results,” said Doug McMillon, Walmart’s president and CEO. “That framework is about to change. A native, multimedia, personalised, and contextual AI experience is coming. We are moving toward that more enjoyable and practical future with Sparky and through collaborations like this important step with OpenAI.”