Billions of people are currently using a messaging app of some kind on their mobile devices, not just to text but to interact with search engines or conduct online business. Though the initial purpose was social communication it has become clear it has a wider reach especially with today’s remote and hybrid working. Many organizations have looked at messaging apps as beneficial tools in not just improving communication but increasing efficiency of the workforce and even a marketing tool. So what can we expect in the coming year?
Artificial Intelligence (AI)
Is already flexing itself this year in other arenas but as far as messaging goes expect AI assisted virtual meetings. The remote-hybrid work model is not going anywhere and savvy employers know that making the workforce happier with the tools at its disposal equates to higher productivity. Imagine AI that can act as an AI assistant processing in the same way as a human brain, recording, organizing and managing data. It goes further than just minute taking but processing and sending data to contributors. It will free meeting participants to focus on decision making.
Multidimensional chat
Emojis and GIFs etc have been around for a while within messaging but I see this advancing to sound emojis and stickers to make chat more multidimensional and real life. Some companies out there have already begun to create holographic material intended to create a stronger emotional connection.
Online shopping
I expect to see more embedding of messaging apps into websites and even being used as a first port of call for online shopping. Using a messaging app near product descriptions converts the call to action to a shove to action. Say the messaging assistant answers all the questions you have about your item and then directs you to the checkout?
Better collaboration
Prior to the Covid-19 pandemic remote working was rare. It has risen from 5% to 40% according to McKinsey Global Institute, and as such the approach to teamwork and collaboration has also changed to reflect that. Communication is key and frequent now that in-person interaction is gone. Messaging options have had to come in line with this with videoconferencing the norm, some include immersive software via VR (virtual reality) and metaverse that can simulate remote collaboration in a virtual office.
In any case there will be fierce competition in the new messaging app market especially if their use as powerful marketing tools, grows as I suspect it will. Messaging apps offer unprecedented scale where brands can reach large audiences via the app but must do so intelligently through personalized marketing that increases engagement and drives conversions. The most vital point to note here is data privacy and encryption. Messaging apps handle personal information and require high levels of security encryption, though any apps have already factored this in, the rest of the newcomers need to also.