Google and Instagram have launched this week a new e-commerce destination, encouraging people to practice safe distancing and to continue spending money online instead of risking the spread of COVID by physically visiting brick-and-mortar stores. So, shop till you drop and there is no need to wear a mask.
Instagram, which recently turned photos and Stories into shoppable posts, on Thursday introduced Instagram Shop to the Explore tab, making it easier to browse and buy from brands and creators directly in the app.
It’s simple with the click of a button. All one needs to do is to look for IG’s colorful checkout arrows (>>) in order to find available products.
“Discover the latest trends, get personalized recommendations, and preview exclusive launches, all in one place, so you can browse and buy the products that you love,” as per the company blog. This feature is now gradually rolling out in the US before expanding globally “in the coming weeks.”
Customers will soon be able to check out seamlessly with Facebook Pay, from Instagram’s parent company. The system is secured via an extra layer of security and an option to add a unique PIN or device biometrics (Touch or Face ID). Later this year, the technology becomes more user friendly and productive as the company plans to introduce a standalone Shop tab in the Instagram navigation bar.
Google is taking a leaf out of Instagram’s influencer book with the new Shoploop app, developed in its experimental workshop Area 120.
The experience, “is more interactive than just scrolling through images, titles, and descriptions on a traditional e-commerce site.”, as per GM Lax Poojary. All Shoploop videos are capped at 90 seconds, “and help you discover new products in an entertaining way,” he further added. “We want to help people experience the look and feel of products they’re shopping for in real life without going to a physical store … Shoploop helps you get product reviews from real people who are knowledgeable about the products in a particular area.”
The application in the current scenario is focused on content creators, publishers, and store owners in the beauty industry—mainly beauty makeup, skincare, haircare, and nails.
