Paytm, one of the leading online payments startup has now introduced a new service which enables users to chat in-app with peers. The service, which is called Paytm Inbox, is now rolling out to users.
The Paytm Inbox mobile application is now available for Android devices on Google Play Store. The company has said that the app will be available on Apple Store for iOS devices very soon.
The launch of this chat feature comes at a time when WhatsApp — one of the leading instant messaging app, is reported to launch its peer-to-peer payments service in India by the end of this year.
Commenting on the development, Paytm Senior VP Deepak Abbot said,
We have realized that besides making payments, our users and merchants also like to communicate with each other. There is a need for social messaging, commerce and payments seamlessly blending into one another. This will help us drive greater engagement on our platform and build a stronger bond with our customers.
Using Paytm Inbox, users can send texts, photos, videos, live locations and photos captured with a built-in camera. Other features include instant notifications, orders and games. In order to make the platform more engaging, Paytm has also added with cricket and other trivia-based games.
It appears that Paytm is looking to recreate the success WeChat’s in-app chat service model in China. By leveraging its growing user base, the startup is looking to enhance user engagement through Paytm Inbox, and in turn, hopes to increase the number of transactions on the platform.
While WhatsApp is reported to enter the digital payments sector in India, Hike has already introduced such service with the launch of its UPI-enabled digital wallet — Hike Wallet in June.