On Tuesday Pinterest announced its foray into social commerce with buyable pins. With the update, users will have the capability to purchase products they’re viewing directly from their mobile phone. The option will be available for iOS later on in June with Android and web later in the year.
‘Social Commerce’ Is Trending
Social media platforms are finding it increasingly more difficult to find sustainable revenues and profits within the market. This is evidenced by Facebook’s re-branding as an advertising firm, and popular ‘promoted’ or ‘sponsored’ postings first seen on Twitter and Instagram.
Pinterest announced promoted pins last year. Pinners are already compiling boards with items that they’re interested in. Therefore the leap to ‘buyable pins’ makes perfect sense.

Note the blue “buy it” button on the left of the ‘pin it’ button and the product price , corresponding blue, in the left hand corner.
Chao Wang, Pinterest Engineering Manager says this new app feature will be rolled out on iOS first. Payment will be available with standard credit and on an Apple account.
If you’re in the U.S., you’ll see buyable Pins on your iPhone or iPad in a few weeks. If you’re on Android or using your desktop, you’ll see them in future releases.We can’t wait to see all the creative things you do with buyable Pins. Maybe you’ll get gear for your first family camping trip, or find the perfect housewarming gift for a friend. Whatever it is, happy shopping!
Shoppers, Rejoice!
The Pinterest buy option presents an easy to use option on an already user friendly, aesthetically pleasing platform. Imagine planning an event (like a wedding) and being able to purchase items you’re interested in directly from Pinterest? Pinterest continues to work on the rollout in terms of payment ease and usage across different mobile operating systems.
That said it does, however, appear that pinning and shopping have gotten that much closer.
Jake S. Nelson
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