The Facebook-owned messaging app WhatsApp could soon be rolling out a Yellow Pages-like feature that lets you search up and contact local businesses.
According to Reuters, the test for this new feature is already happening in São Paulo (Brazil), which allows WhatsApp users to find shops and services through a directory in the app.
Here’s how it works
Users can search for a local business on WhatsApp through the “Businesses nearby” option under the existing “new group” and “New contact” options. Tapping this button will show various business listings nearby your current location in categories such as grocery stores, restaurants, apparel & clothing, amongst others.
You can also filter the results to find exactly what you are looking for. When selecting a local business, WhatsApp will show the name of the business, address, distance from your location, and whether the business is open or closed. You can tap on a business to know more about it, including its description and full address. In addition, users will be able to chat with the business.
WhatsApp CEO Will Cathcart said that the company will look to expand the business directory feature to more cities over the next few months.
We’re kicking this off in São Paulo which is home to millions of small businesses. For those who aren’t in São Paulo to try it out, here’s what it looks like: pic.twitter.com/cMu9DwlUYw
— Will Cathcart (@wcathcart) September 15, 2021
