Live-streaming commerce platforms facilitate the sale of items through real-time auctions and direct sales. These applications allow sellers to showcase products, interact with potential buyers, and conduct bidding processes virtually. A prominent example of this type of platform is Whatnot, which specializes in collectibles, trading cards, and other niche items.
The proliferation of these platforms offers numerous advantages to both sellers and buyers. Sellers gain access to a wider audience than traditional brick-and-mortar stores, enabling them to reach collectors and enthusiasts globally. This expanded reach often translates to increased sales and higher prices. Buyers benefit from the convenience of purchasing from their homes, the ability to interact directly with sellers, and the potential to discover rare or unique items. Historically, these online auction formats evolved from earlier web-based auction sites, integrating live video and interactive features to create a more engaging and dynamic buying experience.
