Users of the messaging app Tango can now shop online without leaving the app – after partnerships were struck with Alibaba’s AliExpress and Walmart.com.

US-based Tango, which boats more than 300 million users, have launched “social shopping” on their message and chat platform allowing, they say, users to choose from millions of products sold by the two retailers online.

“The company expects to expand shopping options over time to include additional retailers and geographies,” Tango said in a press statement.

“Tango will offer curated lists of products based on user preferences, while also allowing them to create their own collections to share with family and friends.”

Leo Shen, AliExpress GM, said Tango offers a way for consumers to access products on AliExpress “that are relevant to their preferences and lifestyles”.

“We look forward to teaming up with Tango to provide consumers a great shopping experience wherever they go.”

Tango CEO and co-founder Uri Raz says the move takes Tango beyond the realm of being just an messaging service.

“Starting today, we’re leading the way in ‘conversational commerce,’ making it simple for consumers to connect with leading retailers using the same platform they rely on every day to chat with friends and family,” he said.

“Tango is excited to collaborate with Walmart and AliExpress to revolutionise blending commerce and communication, creating a new and exciting experience for consumers and sellers alike.”

Founded in 2009, TangoMe Inc is the developer of Tango, a free mobile messaging app whose users enjoy free video and voice calls, texting, social discovery, browsing and sharing content with one another.

The company works with third-party game developers, brands, content publishers, and advertisers to provide distribution, integration opportunities, and advertising. Tango is cross-platform, operating over 3G, 4G and Wi-Fi, and is available in 15 languages in more than 224 countries.