Visa plugs its payment network into ChatGPT, letting AI agents shop and pay for users

Visa announced on June 10 that it has embedded its global payment network inside ChatGPT, allowing AI agents to independently shop and complete purchases for users at any merchant accepting Visa. Unlike OpenAI’s previous attempt, Instant Checkout—which was retired in March due to merchant adoption issues and high fees—this integration links users’ Visa cards directly to ChatGPT, streamlining transactions while maintaining security. The partnership enables AI agents to act as personal shoppers, such as finding and buying wireless headphones under $150 for a user. Jack Forestell, Visa’s chief product and strategy officer, emphasized that the focus is on building trust through secure infrastructure, fraud monitoring, and seamless transaction processes. To mitigate risks like overspending or unauthorized purchases, Visa will implement guardrails including spending limits, approval steps, and restricted merchant access. Disputes will follow existing Visa rules, though the company is updating its token framework and data capture systems to prevent mid-transaction errors. OpenAI will provide the AI agent technology for decision-making and purchase initiation, while Visa handles payment authorization and fraud protection. Neither company disclosed financial terms or fee structures, though Instant Checkout previously charged merchants 4% per transaction, which deterred adoption. Forestell noted that while users are comfortable with AI recommendations, completing purchases requires an additional layer of trust. The collaboration marks a shift toward AI as active participants in commerce, with Visa ensuring transactions remain secure and reliable.