Shopify AI Data Rules: What Partners Must Know

TL;DR

Shopify is introducing new AI data rules for partners, effective February 27, 2026, which include stricter guidelines for using merchant data to train AI models. Partners must obtain explicit written consent from merchants to use their data for AI training. Failure to comply may result in app removal from the Shopify platform.

TL;DR: Shopify is tightening how partners can use merchant data for AI. Changes go live Feb 27, 2026. Here's what you need to do.

What's Changing?

Shopify just announced significant updates to its Partner Program Agreement and API Terms of Service, effective February 27, 2026.

The biggest change? Stricter rules around AI and machine learning.

The New Rules

No AI Training Without Consent - You can no longer use merchant or customer data to train AI/ML models without explicit written consent from merchants.
New Partner Roles - Shopify is introducing clearer role definitions for partners, affecting how you access certain APIs.
Enhanced Billing Transparency - Changes to how billing works for partner services.

Why This Matters

If you're building Shopify apps that use AI features (product recommendations, chatbots, analytics, etc.), you need to audit your data practices NOW.

Questions to ask yourself:

Are you using any merchant data to train models?
Do you have explicit consent documented?
Are your AI features compliant with the new terms?

What You Need to Do

Before Feb 27:

Review the updated PPA at help.shopify.com/en/partners/help-support/faq/ppa
Audit your AI features - Document what data you're using and how
Get consent - If you're training on merchant data, get it in writing
Update your privacy policy - Be transparent about AI usage

If You're Non-Compliant:

Shopify hasn't been specific about enforcement, but historically they've removed apps that violate terms. Don't risk your app getting pulled.

The Bigger Picture

This move comes amid broader concerns about AI and data privacy. With Shopify stock down 24% over 90 days partly due to "AI jitters," the company is clearly positioning itself as merchant-first when it comes to data protection.

Expect more platforms to follow suit.

My Take

As someone who builds Shopify apps daily, I see this as a positive move for the ecosystem. It forces us to be more thoughtful about AI implementation and builds trust with merchants.

Yes, it's more work. But it's the right kind of work.

Need help auditing your Shopify app for compliance? Get in touch at /contact

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Shopify's new AI data rules for partners?

Shopify's new AI data rules require partners to obtain explicit written consent from merchants before using their data to train AI models. This change is part of Shopify's updated Partner Program Agreement and API Terms of Service, which aim to enhance data protection and transparency. The new rules will be enforced starting February 27, 2026, and are part of the Shopify AI data rules partners must follow.

How do the new AI data rules affect Shopify app developers?

The new AI data rules affect Shopify app developers who use AI features, such as product recommendations, chatbots, and analytics, in their apps. Developers must audit their data practices, document the data they use, and obtain consent from merchants if necessary. This ensures compliance with the new terms and avoids potential app removal from the Shopify platform, as outlined in the Shopify AI data rules partners must adhere to.

What happens if a Shopify partner fails to comply with the new AI data rules?

If a Shopify partner fails to comply with the new AI data rules, their app may be removed from the Shopify platform. While Shopify hasn't specified the exact enforcement measures, the company has a history of removing apps that violate its terms. Partners should review the updated Partner Program Agreement and API Terms of Service to ensure they understand the new rules and take necessary steps to comply, in line with the Shopify AI data rules partners are expected to follow.