Shopify launches AI chat-based store builder Canvas

Shopify introduced Canvas, a new site-building tool that lets merchants create and customize their online store by chatting with its AI agent, Sidekick. Unlike the previous no-code editor, Canvas renders the store's actual code in real time, allowing merchants to test interactivity, animations, and different screen sizes as changes are made. Sidekick can now work directly with theme files after Shopify simplified its theme architecture. The initial launch lacks third-party theme support, app blocks, translations, and mobile access, but Shopify says these will be added over time.