Anthony McGrathShopify integrates AI knowledge base into Merchant Admin
Shopify embeds its AI knowledge base in Merchant Admin, easing management of store policies and FAQs for AI shopping agents.
Quick answer
Shopify has integrated its AI agent knowledge base into Merchant Admin, retiring the old app from January 2027. This simplifies managing AI data like policies and FAQs for Shopify stores.
Key takeaways
- Shopify moves AI knowledge base into Merchant Admin from January 2027
- Stores under 1,000 facts auto-transferred; larger stores must re-enter info
- Store policies and contact data publish automatically by default
Shopify has shifted its AI agent Knowledge Base from a standalone app into the Merchant Admin dashboard. This change, announced on 26 October 2026, means that from 15 January 2027 the old app will be discontinued. Search Engine Journal covered the update.
The new setup places all non-product information an AI agent needs into the Merchant Admin under Sales Channels > Agentic > Knowledge Base. This includes store policies, contact details, shipping times, return rules and brand values. Some key info, like store policies and contacts, are published automatically when created.
The knowledge base organizes facts into ten categories. These come from storefront scans, admin settings or merchant input. Shopify regularly scans stores for new info, but if changes are missed you can request a rescan, which may take up to 48 hours.
Information remains unpublished until you decide to publish. Stores with custom or Agentic plans can add extra facts but scans may not apply to password protected storefronts.
Stores with fewer than 1,000 facts had their data transferred automatically. Larger stores must manually re-enter desired facts before the January deadline. Shopify has emailed those impacted.
The purpose is to improve AI agent accuracy for customer queries without affecting store visibility in AI search results. You can also publish or unpublish categories or individual fields all at once.
What does this mean for you?
Update your knowledge base in Merchant Admin if you run a Shopify store. If you had the previous Knowledge Base app, start moving facts now, especially if you have over 1,000 entries.
Check your store policies and contact info are accurate and published. Testing your AI shopping agent responses with real buyer questions is also a good idea.
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Questions and answers
How does Shopify's new AI knowledge base work?
Shopify's AI knowledge base now lives in the Merchant Admin, holding store policies, return info and other facts. It uses storefront scans and manual input to help AI answer shopper questions accurately.
Who needs to act on the Shopify knowledge base change?
Stores with over 1,000 facts must manually re-enter key info before 15 January 2027. Smaller stores had their data transferred automatically and need no action.
Can I control what the AI publishes from my knowledge base?
Yes. Merchants can publish or unpublish entire categories, specific items, or all facts at once, letting you control what AI agents see and use.
