ShopChat: The Social Shopping Keyboard App Backed by Rakuten
Revolutionizing Social Commerce with a Tap
Imagine blending seamless messaging with effortless online shopping—that’s the vision behind ShopChat, a San Francisco-based startup that’s redefining social commerce. Launched in 2016 and now emerging from stealth mode, ShopChat combines a mobile keyboard app with integrated shopping features, creating a frictionless way to discover and share products without leaving your favorite chat apps.
How ShopChat Works
1. Keyboard-Powered Shopping
- iOS App (Android Coming Soon): Replace your default keyboard with ShopChat to search and share products directly within iMessage, WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger, and more.
- Retailer Integration: Access inventory from major brands like Sephora, Macy’s, and Foot Locker—no in-app purchases required. Users are directed to the retailer’s site to complete transactions.
2. White-Label API for Businesses
- Third-party apps (like Rakuten’s Viber) can embed ShopChat’s shopping features into their platforms, enabling in-chat commerce.
Key Features and Partnerships
- Curated Shopping Experience: Algorithms prioritize 20 out of 60+ partner brands (including Guess and PetSmart) based on user behavior, trends, and social interactions.
- Rakuten Backing: The $1.25 million funding round, led by Rakuten, signals strong industry confidence. Notably, ShopChat powers Viber’s new in-app shopping feature, leveraging its 800-million-user base.
- Beta Success: Since its quiet App Store debut in August 2016, ShopChat has attracted 100,000 beta testers.
Why ShopChat Stands Out
The Rise of Social Commerce
Messaging apps dominate screen time, evolving into hubs for customer service (e.g., KLM’s Messenger boarding passes) and chatbots. Yet, as CEO Zephrin Lasker notes, “People prefer sharing products with friends over talking to bots.” ShopChat taps into this desire by merging social interaction with instant purchasing.
Eliminating Friction
- No App Switching: Search, share, and buy without toggling between browsers or apps.
- Social-Driven Discovery: Products appear based on what friends are discussing or trending items.
The Future of Message Commerce
ShopChat exemplifies the next wave of social commerce, where conversations and shopping collide. With Rakuten’s support and a growing roster of retail partners, it’s poised to transform how we shop—one chat at a time.
Image Caption: ShopChat’s keyboard interface seamlessly integrates shopping into messaging apps.
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