eBay and Skype Integrate Voice and Text Chat Functionality

Strategic Insights -

eBay and Skype announced a joint initiative to integrate voice and text chat functionality on the eBay platform, allowing users to communicate with sellers in real-time. This feature will be available on 14 categories across eBay.com, with the primary goal of evaluating Skype use among different types of goods and user communities. The integration is part of a pilot program aimed at enhancing the e-commerce experience on eBay.

Key Takeaways:

  • eBay users will have the option to include Skype functionality on listings in 14 categories across eBay.com, starting from June 19.
  • Sellers can add a "Skype Me" button to their item listings, allowing buyers to communicate with them using voice, text chat, or both.
  • The "Skype Me" button will appear in a new "Ask a seller a question" section, enabling buyers to interact with sellers in real-time.
  • This integration is available at no cost to users, aiming to enhance the way people communicate and trade on eBay.
  • High involvement and high price categories are expected to benefit significantly from this integration.
  • Bill Cobb, president of eBay North America, believes that Skype will "enhance the way that people communicate and trade on eBay."
  • Henry Gomez, North America general manager, Skype, emphasizes that "good communication is at the heart of smooth e-commerce transactions."
  • The integration is part of a pilot program designed to evaluate Skype use among different types of goods and user communities.

Statistics:

  • 14 categories on eBay.com will have the option to include Skype functionality.
  • Starting from June 19, sellers can add a "Skype Me" button to their item listings.
  • The integration is available at no cost to users.

Sources:

  • WIRELESS NEWS-(C)1999-2006 10Meters - http://www.10meters.com
  • eBay and Skype Bilateral Announcement