CI&T Inc., a global technology transformation specialist, has released its latest "Retail Tech Reality Check" report, revealing the growing influence of artificial intelligence $(AI)$ on consumer shopping behavior. Based on a survey of over 1,000 U.S. consumers, the report highlights that nearly three-quarters of shoppers now use AI tools at least occasionally during their purchasing journey. Consumers are increasingly confident in conducting research to find the best products and prices, with the number of shoppers starting their journey on marketplaces and search engines now nearly equal. The study also notes a significant shift in price sensitivity, with 71% of respondents perceiving higher prices compared to last year and 65% expecting further increases. Additionally, 64% of consumers expressed interest in "agentic AI," which can autonomously order products based on user preferences and purchase history. The report urges retailers to adopt dynamic pricing, optimize for search, and prioritize transparency to meet evolving consumer expectations and protect profit margins in an AI-driven retail landscape.