Soon, Facebook could let you shop from Live Videos
What's the story
After Instagram's e-commerce-focused moves, Facebook is leveraging its 'Live Video' feature for the purpose of shopping.
The social network, according to TechCrunch.com/2018/12/06/facebook-live-shopping/">TechCrunch, is testing a feature aimed at letting Facebook merchants advertise their products in Live Videos and take orders and payments at the same time.
This would basically turn their Facebook pages into live shopping networks.
Here's more about the feature.
Working
How Live Video shopping would work?
Though the feature is still in testing stage, reports suggest it would work with a combination of Facebook and its Messenger app.
Merchants would be able to notify their Page followers before advertising or demonstrating one or more products.
The buyers could then tune in, take screenshots of the item they like, and place orders by sending them to the sellers via Messenger.
Twitter Post
Here's what the test feature looks like
Facebook is adding a live video mode for sellers. Viewers can message you during the broadcast with screenshots of the product and you can take payments from your inbox.
— Jeff Higgins Wants To Build A Snowman (@ItsJeffHiggins) November 29, 2018
Facebook is essentially giving users their own live Home Shopping Network. pic.twitter.com/gQDuuJkqNr
Availability
Merchants in Thailand are already testing it
Facebook is testing the feature in Thailand and has stated that there are no plans to expand the capability, not at this stage.
However, it is worth noting that the social network has already opened a waitlist for merchants to join in for this feature.
Plus, it is also taking active feedback from the merchants who have already got access to the feature.
Information
So far, feedback has been good
Speaking to TechCrunch, a Facebook representative revealed that sellers in Thailand believe Live Video demos provide more understanding of products than still photos. Even buyers are happy with the feature as it enables them to sort out any queries they may have regarding the products.
Goal
Another move to increase revenues?
At present, Facebook is not taking any cut for the sales generated from this feature.
However, bringing customers to Live Videos for shopping could be its way to open gates for increased advertising.
In other words, the site could go beyond regular News Feed-based ads and put adverts on Live Videos being streamed on the platform to generate more revenues.