Chat-bot software by Onionsack, a bet messaging software platform, allows customers to place bets via the Facebook Messenger app with Paddy Power being the first bookmaker to go live with the new product.

Paddy Power introduces Facebook betting

Customers are able to log in to their betting account, check balances and place wagers using the app.

Once connected to the chat-bot, customers can compose a message detailing the bet they wish to place, with Onionsack’s platform able to understand and execute transactions expressed.

Customers can also receive personalised sporting updates through push notifications designed to provide a more tailored user experience.

Michael Healy, product director at Paddy Power, said: “We know our customers love mobile messaging apps so having a chat-bot on Facebook Messenger is the obvious first step into the chat-bot marketplace. We’re delighted to be the first bookmaker to market in such an exciting area.

“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.”

Onionsack CEO Jonathan Power said: “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 chat-bots in the near future, as it provides a simple and more personalised way of betting.”