Visa announced on Sunday that it will be launching a new initiative called Visa Intelligent Commerce, aiming to make it easier for AI “agents” to shop on behalf of users. These agents will be able to search, select, and pay for goods and services according to users’ preferences and budgets.
AI agents will access Visa’s network under user-defined spending limits. Visa partners include OpenAI, Microsoft, IBM, and Stripe. AI-ready cards use tokenization to secure digital payment credentials.
“Soon people will have AI agents browse, select, purchase and manage on their behalf,” said Jack Forestell, Visa’s Chief Product and Strategy Officer. “These agents will need to be trusted with payments, not only by users, but by banks and sellers as well.” To make this possible, Visa has opened up its payments network to developers working with top AI firms like OpenAI, Anthropic, Microsoft, Mistral AI, and Perplexity. The program includes pilot projects already underway and is expected to expand in 2026. The new system will let users set spending limits and personalize recommendations. “The early incarnations of agent-based commerce are doing well on discovery, but struggle with payments,” Forestell added. “That’s why we started working with them.” Visa’s program introduces AI-ready cards with tokenized credentials, allowing agents to confirm identities and authorize transactions. Developers can access APIs to integrate these tools into their platforms, making it possible for AI to handle tasks like booking flights or ordering groceries automatically. While AI agents may eventually handle routine shopping, Visa says consumers will retain control. “Each consumer sets the limits, and Visa helps manage the rest,” said Forestell. With U.S. credit card debt surpassing $1.2 trillion, Visa says its system will ensure user consent and control, easing concerns over spending, as noted by the AP. Visa claims that the goal is to simplify commerce while maintaining trust and security, transforming AI-powered shopping from concept to reality.
