Yell is delighted to announce the launch of Yell Messaging, in collaboration with LivePerson and using Apple Business Chat - a new way for users to communicate directly with companies using the Messages app on Apple products.

In today’s challenging environment, it is essential that Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) can interact with consumers seamlessly, using the latest virtual AI technology to assist them. This new free service offers support and ease of use to both businesses and their customers.

With this new service, when a consumer searches for a local supplier who has activated messaging, they will be presented with an option to start a Business Chat. If they tap on the Messages button, a conversation with the company will instantly open in the Messages app, and users can take their time responding when it’s convenient. The Yell bot, Hartley, will assist with responses to a set of frequently asked questions before passing the customer through to their business of choice.

The new Yell Messaging functionality is initially available via Yell.com, through Apple Maps and Spotlight search on iPhone and iPad. The service also incorporates Apple’s new Chat Suggest feature, which offers the option to start a messaging conversation when a customer taps to call a business.

Claire Miles, CEO of Yell Ltd commented: "Consumers now expect to be able to contact businesses around the clock and on the go. Conversational commerce has become a key digital trend, with 70% of consumers using a private messaging channel to engage with a brand and discuss their requirements.

"The new Yell Messaging service not only provides our customers with vastly increased visibility for their business, it also provides exclusive access to leading technology not normally accessible to SMEs, due to prohibitively high costs and integration challenges. If a business is not activated to engage with consumers via Messaging, they’re missing out on a great opportunity to grow their business."

Jerry Haywood, Senior Vice President, EMEA of LivePerson said: "We’re excited to power Yell’s Apple Business Chat experience and give its businesses the ability to connect over a messaging channel their consumers already know and love. By combining the ease and convenience of messaging with the guidance of their new bot Hartley, Yell is making it easier than ever to quickly make lasting connections."