Mashable: Apple puts Facebook on notice with Business Chat in iMessage

Today, Apple rolled out its new Business Chat which allows consumers to message companies via iMessage. According to Mashable, Business Chat is similar to Facebook Messenger and has enticed a handful of early partners including Home Depot, Marriott, and Wells Fargo. In order to use the function, users can search for brands via Maps, Safari or Spotlight Search on their iPhone. Via Business Chat, the customers can ask questions or make purchases using Apple Pay. 

The roll out comes at an opportune time for Apple because Facebook had to put a pause on new messaging bots amid the social media giant's current controversy surrounding user data. 

Although similar to Facebook Messager, Apple differentiates itself by allowing users to talk to a real person rather than with a chatbot. Apple also made sure to note that user data will be safe on Business Chat stating, "Users are always in control of their contact information — businesses will not receive any personal data by default."

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