Flipkart launches innovation lab to explore future of e-commerce

Flipkart, the Indian e-commerce marketplace, plans to explore Web 3.0 and metaverse use cases including non-fungible-tokens, virtual storefronts, play-to-earn and other blockchain technologies under its new initiative, Flipkart Labs, the company said. 

Fast facts

• Flipkart Labs, based in Bengaluru, will also serve as a vehicle for research into redefining customer experience, accelerating digital commerce, and logistics and supply chain issues. 

• Flipkart Labs will “build and create technology-based solutions that can redefine e-commerce and enhance the shopping experience,” the company said, adding it will collaborate with brands, merchants, startups and technologists. 

• Flipkart Camera, formed after the acquisition of AR/VR startup Scapic in November 2020, has since deployed multiple 3D and augmented reality-based immersive shopping experiences.  
• “We are in the early days of a paradigm shift from Web 2.0 to Web 3.0 and this evolution of the web/internet built on the concepts of decentralization, openness and greater user utility will have a profound impact across many areas including e-commerce,” said Naren Ravula, vice president and head, product strategy and deployment at Flipkart Labs.