Can AI agents buy things before we ask?

Yes, but only in limited, mostly pre-authorized ways today.

AI agents and smart devices can already buy some things before you explicitly ask, but usually only within rules you set in advance. Common examples include auto-reordering printer ink, detergent, or other routine supplies when a sensor or threshold is triggered.

For broader shopping, current systems usually need guardrails such as spending limits, approved product lists, or a confirmation step before checkout. Many companies still keep a human in the loop for more complex purchases.

So the realistic near-term version is not a fully independent agent buying random items on its own, but a budgeted assistant that can detect needs, suggest purchases, and sometimes place routine orders automatically.

So the short answer is: yes for routine, pre-approved purchases; not usually for open-ended, unprompted shopping.