Instagram’s rumored e-commerce app
There are currently rumors that Instagram is in the process of developing stand-alone e-commerce app, on which businesses can sell their products directly to those who download the app. Although Instagram has not commented yet, this rumor follows Instagram expanding the option shopping bag icon to all retailers so that their customers can buy directly from their Instagram stories. There are also currently the booking and payment features for businesses for customers to set up salon appointments or buy tickets. Instagram seems to be on track for entering the e-commerce world — in November 2017, Instagram reported that 25 million accounts switched their accounts to business profiles.
What does this mean for a business using social media? This new app seems like a great tool for business using social media, especially those selling products and/or services. An e-commerce app will work as another platform for business to sell their products and gain traction. Instagram seems to be catering to the business that use it for marketing and sales purposes, and I think this new e-commerce apps opens up the opportunity for more sales and more exposure. Businesses will need to be tech-savvy in order to adapt to this change and figure out the new platform. Hopefully, the app will be user-friendly and easy for the followers and customers of these businesses to use so that these business can benefit from the app.