Shopify launches Canvas to let merchants build stores with AI

Shopify introduced Canvas on Thursday, a conversational site-building interface powered by its AI assistant, Sidekick. While the e-commerce platform previously offered a modular, no-code editor, deeper customizations historically required manual coding or hiring a developer. Canvas changes this by allowing merchants to describe their design goals in plain text, which the AI then translates into live modifications.

Unlike traditional static previews, Canvas renders the actual underlying code of the store in real time. This allows users to test animations, verify full page interactivity, and preview how the layout responds to different screen sizes. To facilitate this, Shopify simplified its theme architecture so Sidekick can easily interpret and modify the design files. The AI also takes periodic screenshots of the workspace to ensure its visual understanding aligns with what the merchant sees.

Currently in its early stages, Canvas is restricted to desktop browsers and lacks several advanced features. The initial launch does not support third-party themes, app blocks, extensions, translations, markets, or theme updates. However, Shopify plans to roll out these capabilities over time as the tool matures.

For e-commerce entrepreneurs and small businesses, Canvas lowers the barrier to entry by eliminating the need for expensive web developers or complex coding knowledge. It positions Shopify alongside other AI-driven design platforms like Wix, Squarespace, and Webflow, shifting the web development landscape toward natural language interfaces.