Snapchat is currently testing a new visual search tool, and has chosen to partner with Amazon to launch it. This feature allows users to take a picture of a product or barcode with the Snapchat camera, then press and hold on the camera screen to launch an Amazon product page to learn more and make a purchase.
With this partnership between Amazon and Snapchat, it gives Amazon retailers a whole new e-commerce channel without any work on their end. A purchase can be made with a minimal amount of clicks, assuming Snapchat’s visual discovery tool is able to identify and find a product or bar code.
“Simply point your Snapchat camera at a physical product or barcode, and press and hold on the camera screen to get started,” writes Snapchat on its news blog.
After a user takes a picture, they can hold down on the camera screen, and if the product or bar code can be identified, the app will display an Amazon card showing a related product page that can open in Amazon’s app or mobile site.
More on Snap’s e-commerce efforts
- Snapchat did not release any financial details around whether it will be taking a portion of the Amazon sales revenue generated by the app.
- It said the visual search tool attached to Amazon is being tested now, and that a rollout of the feature will be slow.
- Snapchat has launched a number of new e-commerce efforts this year, from Shoppable AR Lenses to new e-commerce options for Discover partners.
- Partnering with Amazon to launch this visual search feature further demonstrates Snapchat’s focus on e-commerce and puts it in line to compete with Instagram and Pinterest — both of which are elbowing their way into the e-commerce ecosystem taking shape on social platforms.