July 18, 2017
Amazon Might Launch Messaging App
Amazon might be developing a messaging application that could compete against social networks. Depending on how things play out, the app, reportedly called Anytime, could potentially provide a new platform for connecting with prospects, clients and colleagues one-on-one or in groups.
AFTVnews was hot on the Anytime story. The news site reported that Amazon has been surveying customers to determine which features they would most want in a messaging app. Still, Amazon appears to already have an idea about what it could offer with Anytime. The graphic below, posted by AFTVnews, shows planned features of the app that Amazon is said to be touting.
As the graphic illustrates, Anytime could give both desktop and mobile users the ability to send messages, make voice and video calls, buy goods, share photos and play games. In a potential bid to one-up Facebook’s WhatsApp, which requires phone numbers to find contacts, users could reach a friend using just the person’s name. Plus, security seems to be a significant emphasis with Anytime. The app can reportedly keep chats private and encrypt important messages.
The possible push into the crowded field of messaging apps isn’t too big a stretch for Amazon. This year, the e-commerce colossus announced a video conferencing app for business users, called Chime. It is poised to vie against services like Skype for Business and Cisco’s WebEX. Recently, Amazon also bolstered its Alexa-equipped devices by adding messaging features and voice calling.