Paddy Power in market-first with Facebook Messenger chatbot

Paddy Power has become the first bookmaker to go live with a new chatbot that enables customers to place bets directly through the Facebook Messenger mobile application.

Developed by bet messaging platform provider Onionsack, the chatbot allows punters to log in to their Paddy Power betting account via the app, as well as check their balance and place bets.

Paddy Power customers can write a message detailing the bet they wish to place, and the Onionsack platform understands this and executes transactions on their behalf.

Punters can also receive personalised sporting updates via push notifications, as well as access Paddy Power’s various videos, blogs and podcasts.

Facebook Messenger is the messaging service of social media platform Facebook.

Michael Healy, product director at Paddy Power, said: “We know our customers love mobile messaging apps so having a ChatBot on Facebook Messenger is the obvious first step into the ChatBot marketplace.

“Nearly all of Paddy Power’s customers are on Facebook, and now they can actually place a bet through the Facebook Messenger app with ease.

“Our customers will be able to request odds and receive push notifications tailored to their own betting interests, plus enjoy a daily serving of Paddy Power mischief and entertainment.”

Jonathan Power, chief executive of Onionsack, added: “With nearly the whole world connected to Facebook, the logical step is to allow customers to place a bet through the social media giant’s Messenger app.

“Our innovative transactional bot allows exactly that, providing punters with an even easier way of betting through instant messaging.

“We expect more bookmakers to launch their chatbots in the near future, as it provides a simple and more personalised way of betting.”

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