Rakuten Viber, one of the world’s largest communication platforms, has increased its capacity for core features and developed a number of new initiatives to help people stay connected with their family, friends, and co-workers during the global COVID-19 outbreak.
This has resulted in a remarkable increase in app usage worldwide.
Over the past few weeks, engagement has increased across the entire platform. The most popular features right now are in communication—specifically group messages and calls. Group messages sent are 134% greater, and the number of group calls received by an average Viber user rose to 370% in the past two weeks. The average number of Community engagements has risen by 78%. In Sri Lanka, the number of group calls made was 4 times higher than before and the number of community views has risen by 66%.
Since the outbreak of COVID-19, Viber has increased its capacity to and introduced new initiatives, with more on the way. The app has boosted the number of participants in audio calls from 5 to 20 people at a time.
Together with authorities, Viber launched special communities in several countries where users can receive official and trusted information about the pandemic. Here in Sri Lanka, Viber launched HPB SL Covid-19 a collaborative initiative with the Health Promotion Bureau to disseminate valuable and verified information about the coronavirus to its over 302K members.
Moreover, to help people separate fact from fiction about the coronavirus, Viber has launched an official WHO bot to deliver real-time updates and information about the coronavirus.
“During this challenging time, we are adapting and responding to help keep friends and families, students and teachers, coworkers and partners in constant contact with each other. Our users rely on us, and we will continue enhancing their experience while keeping people connected freely and safely,” said Rakuten Viber CEO, Djamel Agaoua. Rakuten Viber is part of Rakuten Inc., a world leader in e-commerce and financial services. It is the official communication channel of FC Barcelona, and the official instant messaging and calling app partner of the Golden State Warriors.
