Payment Choice Now Defines The New American Shopper

American shoppers aren’t waiting for retail to catch up. They’re already using mobile devices and AI to find products, compare choices and decide where to spend. Their shopping habits are outpacing many merchant systems.

“The 2026 Global Digital Shopping Index: U.S. Playbook” examines how mobile use, AI adoption and payment choice are reshaping U.S. commerce. The report draws on U.S. findings from a wider study of 5,241 consumers and 1,185 merchants across the United States, Brazil and the United Arab Emirates. The research was conducted in March 2026 and also includes insights from 150 payment acquirers.

The findings show that shoppers are more active across digital channels. The average American now records 51 digital shopping days each month, up from 46 in 2024. Much of that growth comes from frequent mobile browsers, higher-income consumers and shoppers who use AI.

These groups buy more often and expect merchants to deliver a smooth experience from discovery through payment.

Download the Playbook The 2026 Global Digital Shopping Index: U.S. Playbook

In “The 2026 Global Digital Shopping Index: U.S. Playbook,” learn how:

Frequent browsing increases the chances of winning a sale. Consumers who browse each day record 53 buying-related digital days each month, compared with an overall average of 32. AI users follow closely at 52 days. The data shows why merchants need to stay visible and ready across mobile, web and in-store channels.

The phone has become an in-store decision tool. Shoppers increasingly use mobile devices to read reviews, compare prices and check accepted payment methods. The use of phones to check payment acceptance rose by 45% from 2024 to 2026. This shift shows that shoppers want faster answers before they reach checkout.

AI agents will need clear limits before shoppers hand over control. Most consumers are open to letting AI search, compare and manage routine tasks. Fewer are ready to let an agent complete a purchase without approval. Cancellation windows, clear spending limits and control over payment choice can help merchants build trust as AI-led shopping grows.

The report gives merchants, acquirers and payment providers a clear view of the next stage of digital shopping. Download it to see how stronger acceptance, better mobile experiences and smarter AI preparation can help turn more shopping activity into sales.

About the Playbook

“The Global Digital Shopping Index” is a PYMNTS Intelligence series in collaboration with Visa Acceptance Solutions. The U.S. Playbook examines how consumer behavior, mobile usage, and AI adoption are reshaping retail across physical and digital channels. This playbook draws on the United States samples of a study spanning 5,241 consumers and 1,185 merchants across the U.S., Brazil, and the UAE, fielded in March 2026, plus a survey of 150 payment acquirers fielded across markets in early 2026. U.S. samples are weighted to reflect the national adult population.