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Shopify Patent: ML Product Categorization Method

The USPTO granted Shopify Inc. Patent US12608733B2 covering a machine learning method for product categorization using taxonomy trees. The patent describes inputting product information into a trained ML model to generate probability arrays across taxonomy levels, then iteratively selecting categories based on probability thresholds until a final category prediction is determined. This protects Shopify's algorithmic approach to automated product classification within its e-commerce platform.

State AGs Demand Payment Networks Block Unauthorized E-Cigarette Sales

Iowa Attorney General Brenna Bird, leading a coalition of 13 state AGs, sent a letter on April 14, 2026 to Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and Discover requesting immediate action to deny services to merchants selling unauthorized e-cigarette products. The AGs claim illicit e-cigarettes account for over 80% of the U.S. market, generating more than $11 billion in annual retail sales, and allege that companies providing payment services to unlawful e-cigarette sellers may face exposure under the FDCA, PACT Act, FTC Act, and federal anti-money laundering statutes. Financial services providers—including card networks, sponsor banks, acquirers, ISOs, and PSPs—are identified as the next regulatory target following prior AG efforts against e-commerce platforms like Shopify.

Shopify Controller Binding Corporate Rules Approved

The Irish Data Protection Commission, in conjunction with the EDPB, has approved Shopify International Limited's Binding Corporate Rules (BCRs) for controllers. This decision provides a framework for Shopify to transfer personal data to third countries while ensuring an essentially equivalent level of protection as required by the GDPR.

Shopify International Limited Processor Binding Corporate Rules Approved

The Irish Data Protection Commission (DPC) has approved the Binding Corporate Rules (BCRs) for Shopify International Limited as a data processor. This decision provides a framework for Shopify's international data transfers, ensuring compliance with GDPR standards.