Former Apple retail boss says AI shopping assistants won't replace stores

Ron Johnson, who built Apple’s retail business, told TechCrunch on Sept. 21, 2026 that AI shopping assistants, or agents that can browse and buy on your behalf, will improve online retail without shifting where people shop. He said “nobody will let an AI agent choose and buy a $1,000 or $2,000 laptop without visiting a website or store.”