ontap.daily (May 22nd 2026)

In today's episode, John breaks down the collision of forces reshaping eCommerce this week. Google has begun rolling out its May 2026 core update, just days after overhauling Search with AI Mode and information agents, while new research challenges assumptions about how fast consumers are actually adopting AI shopping tools. The episode explores what eCommerce looks like when the shopping cart is no longer yours, and why brand trust and product data quality have become the most important competitive advantages merchants can build.Google's May 2026 core update: what it means and what to do right nowNew Datos and SparkToro research suggesting AI adoption among consumers may be stallingPractical Ecommerce's provocative take on eCommerce without merchant-owned cartsPSE Consulting survey: what 4,200+ consumers actually care about when AI shops for themThe "search everywhere optimisation pyramid" framework for building pre-search visibilityWalmart's strong Q1 earnings, and the fuel cost warning that could reshape pricingAuthentic Brands Group's billion-dollar acquisition of Lee Jeans and the brand-as-IP trendWhether you're a Magento merchant, a Shopify store owner, or a digital commerce professional, this episode offers practical insight on navigating a rapidly changing landscape. Visit www.ontapgroup.com for more eCommerce intelligence and to connect with the On Tap team.