This archive report was first published on 15 June 2020.
On June 15, 2020, Facebook's WhatsApp messaging service marked a significant milestone by introducing a digital payments feature in Brazil, with the aim of expanding it globally.
The new feature allows WhatsApp users in Brazil to send money or make purchases directly from the messaging service, without leaving their chat.
According to Facebook, the payments platform used on its leading social network has been integrated into WhatsApp for the first time, enabling users to make transactions securely and conveniently.
"Payments on WhatsApp are beginning to roll out to people across Brazil beginning today and we look forward to bringing it to everyone as we go forward," WhatsApp said in a statement.
The digital payments feature on WhatsApp is free for users, but businesses will be charged a processing fee similar to those charged for credit card transactions.
Facebook sees long-term potential in making its social network and messaging apps venues for businesses to engage in online conversations and transactions with customers.
With over 1.5 billion monthly users worldwide, WhatsApp is the most popular mobile messaging app, and its encrypted end-to-end service ensures secure transactions.
