Apple puts Facebook on notice with Business Chat in iMessage

Apple's iMessage isn't just for talking to your friends, anymore.

Today Apple officially rolled out its new Business Chat feature as part of the iOS 11.3 update. First previewed during last year's WWDC, Business Chat allows people to message companies in iMessage much like the way Facebook users chat with businesses on Messenger.

Though Apple's version of the feature is still in beta and only in the United States and Canda for now, it could mark the start of some serious competition for Facebook. 

Much like Facebook Messenger, which has been enticing businesses for years, Apple's new service lets users chat directly with companies using iMessage. The option will start to show up for participating businesses (Home Depot, Marriott, and Wells Fargo are among a handful of early partners) when you search for them in Maps, Safari, or Spotlight Search on your iPhone. Read more...