Snapchat have filed two e-payment trademarks that could allow users to transfer money between one another.
The two trademarks, which were discovered by TechCrunch, are for:
- “Computer application software for processing electronic payments to and from others that may be downloaded from a global computer network.”
- “Electronic transfer of money for others; providing electronic processing of electronic funds transfer, ACH, credit card, debit card, electronic check and electronic, mobile and online payments.”
They were both filed on 11th July by Snapchat’s law firm, Cooley.
Prior to this, Snapchat were expected to monetise with flash sales or in-app purchases of virtual goods, such as stickers.
However these trademarks seem to suggest they are exploring peer-to-peer money transfers between friends.
Last year, Snapchat hired Instagram’s Head of Business, Emily White, as COO, and last month hired Mike Randell, Global Director of Facebook, as their VP of Business and Marketing Partnerships.
Facebook are also expected to move into the payments space – recently hiring PayPal CEO David Marcus.
Earlier in the year Snapchat launched Our Story.
This feature allows live conversation and photos in event specific threads, for users to connect with fellow event goers.
The global messaging network also released location-based filters, that allow brands to create custom stickers users can add to their photos.
If they pursue this peer-to-peer e-payment strategy, they may be able to keep the app free from interruptive ads.
Snapchat have not commented on the filed trademarks, and have six months to act on them.