Line is a popular mobile communication application with around 17 million users in Taiwan. (Photo : REUTERS)
Messaging app company Line has recently launched Line@, a service that will open up a direct line of communication between businesses and consumers. The Line@ service is in essence an enterprise-focused rendition of Line's popular chat app and is designed to facilitate communication between brands and customers.
Using the existing chat framework, Line@ allows corporate entities to create accounts with searchable user IDs for a $24 fee. The account holder can then exchange messages with customer focus groups and also post content on a social media-like "Timeline," according to a TechCrunch report.
The official launch covers both iOS and Android versions of the Line@ app, as well as a version for desktop computers. The release covers 17 major languages and will be available worldwide with the exception of China.
Free accounts are limited to 1,000 messages a month. Businesses that require more message volume can opt for the $50 paid monthly plan, which increases the limit to 50,000. Subsequent messages are chargeable.
Line already supports official, branded accounts for its consumer app. With Line@, small businesses, designers and freelance professionals can keep in touch with their customers and fan base in an affordable, effective way, according to the official Line website.
Line@ comes with advanced features like one-on-one communication, Timeline, official account pages and detailed statistical information. The desktop version also allows users to create PR pages and user participation-focused content pages which feature polls and questionnaires.
Businesses can carry out product surveys and obtain important information about user attributes like gender, age and more.
