WhatsApp launches new business search features in some regions that allow users to browse for businesses, contact them, and make purchases without ever leaving the app.
On November 17, this new WhatsApp update was revealed by Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg who was at the first-ever WhatsApp Business Summit in Brazil. He mentioned that WhatsApp has now allowed users an in-app facility to search for businesses – by category or name. These features are currently under testing and are only available in a few countries including Brazil, the United Kingdom, Indonesia, Mexico, and Colombia.
As stated by WhatsApp:
“We’ve built business search in a way that preserves people’s privacy. What you search for is processed in a way that cannot be linked back to your account. To start, we’re bringing the ability to search for a business to Brazil, Indonesia, Mexico, and the UK where people can find companies using our WhatsApp Business Platform. In Brazil, the search will help people find small businesses as well.”
The new business search functionality in WhatsApp is accessible through the in-app’s search function. This search tool will include a mini-map to help you find local companies, as well as category filters and verified company accounts. This will make accessing your numerous in-app buying choices easier.
WhatsApp also stated that its payment service would be expanded to other locations, in addition to the business search capabilities. Payment is presently accessible only in India, but WhatsApp will begin testing the service in Brazil soon.
“Ultimately we want people to be able to make a secure payment right from a chat with their credit or debit card. We recently launched this experience in India, and we’re excited to now be testing this in Brazil with multiple payment partners. This seamless checkout experience will be a game-changer for people and businesses looking to buy and sell on WhatsApp without having to go to a website, open another app or pay in person.”
These new updates might be a significant boost for businesses, as they will make their products and services available to millions of consumers through the platform.
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