Mobile Commerce

WhatsApp introduces QR codes for small businesses

The Facebook-owned platform also added catalog sharing to aid merchants as they reopen and expand online. 

By Tatiana Walk-Morris • July 14, 2020

Nike opens latest store concept: Nike Rise

The first of its kind opened in Guangzhou, China, on Thursday, and the retailer plans to expand it in 2021.

By Cara Salpini • July 10, 2020

Explore the Trendline➔

Trendline

Direct to consumer

There's a lot happening in the direct-to-consumer space right now, and it's not going away anytime soon. 

By Retail Dive staff

Verishop adds shoppable content to its app

The strategy has become more popular as retailers like Target and Sephora turn to Instagram Checkout and other social platforms for similar features.

By Tatiana Walk-Morris • July 10, 2020

Apparel rental company Armoire debuts digital dressing room

"Looks" is designed to digitally recreate the in-store shopping experience of trying on new clothes. 

By Tatiana Walk-Morris • July 09, 2020

MySize, Sweet Fit debut virtual fitting mirror with size recommendation tech

The tech providers aim to minimize returns headaches as retailers look for additional contactless solutions to assuage wary customers.

By Tatiana Walk-Morris • July 09, 2020

How COVID-19 boosted QVC, HSN and livestreaming

As the veteran telecommerce networks adapt to the challenges of the pandemic, other brands are catching up to the future of livestreaming.

By Tatiana Walk-Morris • July 09, 2020

Uber will launch US grocery delivery this month

The service, which will be available through its main app and Uber Eats, will roll out in Miami and Dallas.  

By Jeff Wells • July 08, 2020

CVS offers gifts to shoppers who link mobile app to loyalty rewards

The retailer is one of several companies that are encouraging shoppers to use their smartphones for loyalty programs that drive repeat business. 

By Robert Williams • July 07, 2020

Venmo pilots Business Profile feature to showcase small businesses

The service aims to support independent sellers and sole proprietors by keeping personal and business transactions separate. 

By Tatiana Walk-Morris • July 07, 2020

Walmart hosts virtual summer camp, drive-in movies to keep families entertained

Through experiences powered by its mobile app, the retailer aims to connect with parents trying to keep their kids engaged this summer.

By Dianna Christie • July 07, 2020

Francesca's plans first mobile app

The retailer is creating its debut application for iOS and Android amid financial woes that have been accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic. 

By Tatiana Walk-Morris • July 06, 2020

Amazon Pay launches 'Smart Stores' in India

The technology allows local shops to establish digital storefronts and provides contactless payment options. 

By Tatiana Walk-Morris • July 02, 2020

Tanger Outlets debuts virtual shopping service

While its physical locations are beginning to reopen, the feature provides an option to consumers who may not feel comfortable in stores. 

By Tatiana Walk-Morris • June 30, 2020

Google extends free product listings to search results

Free listings for brands and retailers are part of the search giant's increased push into e-commerce.

By Robert Williams • June 30, 2020

Bollé unleashes sunglass try-on experience on Instagram

The AR feature has a viewpoint for each camera on a smartphone, and helps customers find nearby retailers that carry the brand.

By Robert Williams • June 30, 2020

Snapchat's first shoppable show will sell streetwear

The platform's original programming also includes a makeup competition show that features AR try ons.

By Robert Williams • June 26, 2020

Sephora launches on Instagram checkout with over 80 brands

The partnership demonstrates the growing importance of social commerce, especially as companies attempt to reach young consumers.

By Cara Salpini • June 24, 2020

Mastercard partners with installment payment company Splitit

The move will propel the platform across Mastercard's global merchant and customer base.

By Tatiana Walk-Morris • June 23, 2020

Study: Shopping apps boost engagement during pandemic

The cost to acquire a shopper who completed a first purchase plunged by more than half from last year to $19.47.

By Robert Williams • June 23, 2020

North Face, Patagonia, REI boycott Facebook after calls from civil rights groups

Others have since joined the #StopHateforProfit campaign, which seeks to pressure the social network to be more aggressive in removing hate speech.

By Robert Williams • UPDATED: June 24, 2020 at 12:21 p.m.

Google unveils shoppable video ads for YouTube

In tests, Aerie generated sales conversions that were nine times better than its traditional media mix and saw return on ad spend 25% higher than a year prior.

By Robert Williams • June 23, 2020

David's Bridal, Popwallet partner for marketing via mobile wallets

The effort will allow customers to obtain offers and deals directly on their smartphones.

By Tatiana Walk-Morris • June 22, 2020

Etsy unveils AR shopping tool for wall art

The features are particularly useful while the pandemic keeps customers inside, and consumer attention remains focused on the home.

By Tatiana Walk-Morris • June 18, 2020

WhatsApp adds mobile payments in Brazil

Shoppers in the country can now use the Facebook-owned app to browse merchants' product catalogs and make direct payments.

By Robert Williams • June 16, 2020

Snapchat debuts AI-powered lenses, mini apps, real-time features

Nike and Mattel are among the brands using the company's platforms for a broad range of new services.

By Robert Williams • June 15, 2020