Shopify Canvas brings theme code and conversational editing into one store workspace
Merchants can view a live rendering of their store while asking Sidekick to edit theme code. Canvas is rolling out on desktop first, with third-party themes and multilingual features among the initial limitations.
Shopify introduced Canvas on October 1, bringing a whole store into one workspace where merchants can change design through Sidekick conversations or by clicking elements directly. The company says the canvas renders actual theme code, with previews of interactions, animation, different products and screen sizes. Sidekick can use screenshots and code feedback to continue editing.
To support changes across a store, Sidekick begins working directly with theme files, while Shopify simplifies theme architecture and provides store-building instructions and skills. The announcement describes a rollout over the following days, without replacing the existing editor. TechCrunch adds that the initial version is desktop-only and does not yet support third-party themes, app blocks and extensions, markets, multilingual translations, rollouts or theme updates.
Sources
- Shopify debuts Canvas, a way to build online stores by chatting with AI — TechCrunch AI
- Introducing Canvas: Opening the aperture on online store design — Shopify