It will soon be possible to make purchases directly in a WhatsApp conversation, thanks to the Shopping option. For the past two years, WhatsApp has been making its WhatsApp Business application and API available to help businesses grow their business. Based on user feedback, new features are being developed.

Shopping: Enable the purchase of products without leaving WhatsApp

WhatsApp will enable businesses to use Facebook Shops on WhatsApp starting next year. They will be able to sell their products within the application without having to go through a third party platform. Customers will be able to view available products and also contact the seller directly by message to facilitate the exchange. WhatsApp plans to help companies (especially small businesses) integrate this solution. Through Facebook Pay, mobile payments will enable WhatsApp to earn commission.

Today, more than 175 million people send a message to a WhatsApp Business account every day. Facebook says that messaging is popular with users to get information before making a purchase.

Facebook will launch a hosting service connected to WhatsApp Business.

WhatsApp plans to develop partnerships with technical solution providers that facilitate and enrich message management. Facebook also plans to offer "a new option for businesses to manage their WhatsApp messages via hosting services. This solution will enable SMEs to easily synchronise their product catalogue.

Some WhatsApp services will be billed to businesses

WhatsApp says that certain services - without specifying which ones - will be charged to businesses to help "WhatsApp continue to grow while providing a free service... to more than two billion people".

No date has been announced for the official release of these features, WhatsApp speaks of a phased rollout over the coming months.

Source: BDM