Facebook has announced Messenger Platform, an expansion of its messaging application that will let developers tap into key features.
Facebook envisions Messenger Platform as new place for people to express themselves and share content. Allowing developers to hook into Messenger means users will eventually be able to do much more with their conversations, such as create animated GIFs.
People will soon be able to browse for Messenger apps directly from Messenger. Facebook said 40 apps will be available at launch. Facebook also announced Messenger for Business. The idea here is to allow people to communicate with businesses via Messenger rather than via phone or other means. Facebook views it as a more convenient approach to communications between customers and companies.
In an example provided on stage during its F8 developer conference, Facebook demonstrated how Messenger — rather than email — can be used by businesses to provide purchasing and shipping details when shopping online.
Facebook said apps for Messenger and Messenger for Business will go live in a few weeks.
