- According to the company, Minis permit various actions from other apps to be performed instantly into Snapchat;
- Minis are similar to the mini programs that have turned Tencent’s WeChat into one of the most popular apps in China.
Snap revealed a number of new features for Snapchat during the Snap Partner Summit 2020 virtual event, including new integrations of the platform with other apps. The most significant news came with the launch of Minis, which allow users to run other apps within the chat section.
According to the company, Minis permit actions from other apps to be performed instantly. The tools presented at the launch include a mini version of the Headspace meditation app, an Atom movie ticket purchase window and also Flash Cards, which are used to study languages and other subjects.
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According to Snap’s CEO Evan Spiegel Minis offer the potential to help Snapchat grow in e-commerce, since in the future it should gain integration with sales platforms. “You will be able to shop with your friends, which can be a very fun experience”, explains the executive.
Citing a story previously ran by The Information, The Verge likened Minis to the mini programs that have turned WeChat into one of the most popular apps in China. The programs — which let users buy food and pay their bills, among other tasks — generated $113 billion for WeChat last year, up 160% from the year prior, The Information reported. The company takes a cut of purchases made through the app.
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Bitmojis may be licensed for games
Snap also opened a Bitmojis licensing program for games. Now, interested developers can use the technology to transform Snapchat characters into personalized avatars within games.
For this, Snap entered into partnerships with games like Scrabble GO and Uno, which now have the option to create an avatar using the Bitmojis system. The company released a trailer showing the functionality in action.
