Regardless of the recent controversy, Facebook continues successfully implementing many ways for users to purchase items within their own platform. It appears that Instagram, a similar social media service owned by Facebook, is now offering these same in-app purchasing options for users.
This new purchasing option was hinted at through an earlier Instagram update. After a recent update, Instagram had begun to allow sellers to create promotional posts that would appear on random user feeds. That being said, users were still redirected to the seller’s website in order to make a purchase. However, this latest update now allows potential buyers to purchase items while never having to exit Instagram.
In order for users to pay for items or services through Instagram, certain information will need to be provided. Users will need to submit their bank details in order to complete purchases through Instagram. After this takes place, Instagram users have the option of setting a 4 digit PIN for additional security purposes. In an article discussing this major update, Business Today reports that Instagram is expected to reach 1 billion monthly users within the year.
While this news is pleasing to many, it’s important to note what recently happened with WhatsApp. This service is another social media application created by the Facebook company. Recently, WhatsApp began offering transactions between sellers and buyers. Shortly thereafter, Jan Koum, co-founder of WhatsApp, announced that he would be leaving the company. Many believe his departure was due to conflicts regarding transactions taking place within WhatsApp. Jan Koum was noted for wanting to keep WhatsApp free from advertising and bloatware.
To summarize, Instagram will begin allowing users to pay for items and service entirely through the use of this app. This news was recently announced as this social media service nears reaching 1 billion monthly users. That being said, it remains unclear as to how popular this feature will be. It was only recently that Facebook, the parent company of Instagram, found themselves in court in regards to user data issues.
Read More: http://www.adweek.com/digital/instagram-is-quietly-introducing-a-native-payments-option/
Dil Bole Oberoi
