In June 2017, Apple released the details of its new communication platform, Business Chat, that be launching this spring in its iOS 11.3 update. With Business Chat, any iOS 11.3 user will be able to start a thread with businesses they find through Siri, Maps, Safari, and Spotlight search.
Aside from asking questions about services or products from that business, users will be able to make purchases directly within the chat with a merchant using Apple Pay or Apple Pay Cash. Now, it’ll be much easier for someone to book a doctor’s appointment or buy a plane ticket – all in iMessage! Convenient, huh? The best thing about using Business Chat for making purchases is that Apple Pay Cash does not have a middle party that will be paid, therefore there are no extra fees for sending money through the chat.