Google launches Merchant API Beta with new features

Google released the Merchant API Beta, a redesigned version of the Content API for Shopping, with new features and improved architecture

Key features:

• Modular design with isolated sub-API updates.
• New sub-APIs including Data Sources, Notifications, Products, Inventory, and more.
• Improved alignment with Google’s API improvement proposals.

Why we care. This new API version could significantly enhance how advertisers showcase and manage their products on Google’s shopping platforms, potentially improving their ecommerce performance. With ecommerce being the biggest spenders on Google, it’s no surprise to see an update that continues to encourage ease of use for advertisers on the platform.

What’s new.

• Push notifications for account and product data changes.
• Unified Product & ProductStatuses resources.
• Enhanced inventory management capabilities.
• New reporting features, including non-product performance data.

Yes, but: The Merchant API Beta currently lacks full feature parity with the Content API. Google plans to address this in future updates.

What’s next. Google is inviting developers to test the beta version and provide feedback to shape future improvements.

How to get started.

• Access the Merchant API developer website.
• Review the Quickstart guide and Compatibility guides.
• Explore new Client Libraries and Samples.

Bottom line. The Merchant API Beta represents a significant evolution in Google’s ecommerce tools, potentially offering businesses more powerful and flexible ways to manage their online product listings.