Mobile gamers are always looking for ways to optimize their time, stretch their digital budgets, and make everyday tasks more convenient. Whether it’s topping up in-game currencies, discovering new digital services, or connecting with local vendors for gaming accessories, one app that’s evolving fast in the Philippines is bringing all of this closer together. Rakuten Viber has officially launched Viber Marketplace, a feature designed to boost MSME visibility and help users discover thousands of businesses offering products and services—from food and wellness to tech essentials, shopping, and more. For mobile gamers who already rely on Viber for group chats, guild coordination, and community updates, this new Marketplace integration creates a seamless experience inside an app they’re already using daily.
What makes this Marketplace launch even more interesting for gamers is how it builds on Viber’s long-standing mission to empower both users and local entrepreneurs. According to Ritesh Shah, GM of FinTech and VP of Business Solutions at Rakuten Viber, the goal is simple: help businesses reach customers more effectively while giving users a fast and secure way to find what they need. For gamers, this could mean discovering nearby sellers offering mobile top-ups, custom phone accessories, snack bundles for long gaming sessions, or even local shops selling discounted peripherals. And since users can browse by category or location, finding gaming-related deals feels intuitive and quick.
The Marketplace replaces the former Explore tab, but the upgrade is more than just cosmetic. Business profiles now allow users to see product catalogs, descriptions, and services at a glance. Even better, users can chat directly with sellers without revealing their personal phone numbers—something mobile gamers will appreciate, especially those who value privacy when dealing with in-game currency resellers or tech-service shops. With thousands of MSMEs active in the Philippines and a growing number of gamers looking for trusted sellers, this setup creates a natural ecosystem for quick, secure interactions.
The timing is important too. A Manulife survey showed that 41% of Filipinos started a business in 2022, and 65% began buying from small businesses. Despite this growth, many MSMEs struggle to be noticed online—56% feel invisible, and 60% have trouble finding new customers. For gamers who love supporting local businesses, Viber Marketplace makes the discovery process easier and more transparent. This also connects well with digital spending habits; for instance, many players use prepaid credits and digital purchases as part of their gaming lifestyle. In the same spirit, a Viber Gift Card can help users stay connected, top-up services more conveniently, and support local sellers inside the app. Many gamers find it useful that a Viber Gift Card Code can also complement Marketplace purchases when staying engaged with in-app business interactions.
To enhance support for entrepreneurs, Viber also introduced Viber Business Plus, a premium subscription that boosts visibility on the Marketplace. For small businesses selling gaming gear, mobile repair services, or digital products, this subscription can push them higher in search rankings and increase reach by up to 30%. Features like live chat support, message editing, and voice-to-text transcription also help business owners respond faster to customer inquiries—an advantage that gamers appreciate when they need quick turnaround for digital items or tech support.
Go Negosyo founder Joey Concepcion noted that digital platforms have already removed many barriers for MSMEs, and partnering with Viber strengthens access to markets and opportunities. With Viber Marketplace growing fast, mobile gamers now have an easier path to discover local sellers, shop smart, and stay connected—all within one familiar app.
In the end, Viber Marketplace isn’t just another feature. It’s becoming a practical hub where gamers can explore, connect, and support local businesses—all while managing their digital lifestyles more efficiently.
