Google Taskmate Global Launch: Expanding After Kenya Success

Google Launches TaskMate in Kenya, Expanding Gig Economy Opportunities

Google has recently introduced TaskMate in Kenya, a novel crowdsourcing application. This platform enables individuals to leverage their smartphones to complete various tasks and receive financial compensation. This launch signifies a strategic move to capitalize on the expanding gig economy.

Following a year-long trial period within the East African nation, the technology company has released the beta version of the app. Plans are underway to extend its availability to additional countries throughout the African continent. Currently, TaskMate is also accessible in India, where it remains in the pilot phase.

How TaskMate Functions

Users of the TaskMate mobile app can undertake both skilled and unskilled assignments. These tasks, which include activities like translation and photography, are commissioned by businesses and vetted by Google for posting on the platform.

This app is the latest addition to a growing portfolio of Google initiatives designed to provide remuneration for completed services. Other examples include a rewards program offering payment for survey participation and local services advertisements connecting businesses with nearby clients for a fee.

Statements from Google

“We are excited to announce the launch of TaskMate, marking its first availability in Africa and globally,” stated Mike Knapp, Product Manager for TaskMate.

The initial pilot program, initiated in Kenya late last year, allowed users to engage in diverse tasks. One example involved capturing images of plants for a research project conducted by Penn State University. The app categorizes tasks as either “sitting” or “field” assignments.

“After a pilot phase involving 1,000 users who provided overwhelmingly positive feedback, we have transitioned to the beta phase,” Knapp explained. “We are now experimenting on a larger scale.”

“We actively seek businesses and startups to collaborate with us on the platform, exploring how it can assist them in resolving complex challenges,” he added.

Platform Features and Payment Options

Businesses utilizing the platform to post tasks have the flexibility to restrict access to a specific group or invite designated individuals. TaskMate users in Kenya can withdraw their earnings via M-Pesa, a mobile-money payment system operated by Safaricom, the leading telecommunications provider in East Africa.

“This crowdsourcing platform streamlines the distribution and completion of tasks for businesses and organizations. It also presents opportunities for Kenyans, fostering community engagement and supplemental income. This initiative reflects Google’s dedication to developing for and alongside Africa, supporting its ongoing digital transformation,” Knapp emphasized.

Additional Google Investments in Africa

The launch coincided with Google’s announcement of a $10 million loan disbursement. These funds are intended to aid small businesses across Ghana, Kenya, Nigeria, and South Africa in their economic recovery following the COVID-19 pandemic.

Google is distributing these loans through Kiva, a San Francisco-based nonprofit lending organization. This funding is part of a broader $1 billion investment pledge made by Google for Africa a few weeks prior.

Infrastructure Development and Economic Impact

Google’s investment encompasses the construction of a subsea cable. This cable will connect South Africa, Namibia, Nigeria, and St Helena, enhancing connectivity between Africa and Europe. It is projected to deliver faster internet speeds and generate approximately 1.7 million jobs in Nigeria and South Africa by 2025, driven by the growth of the digital economy.

Growth of Africa’s Digital Economy

Africa’s digital economy is anticipated to expand as integration progresses, creating new avenues for growth as more individuals gain internet access. According to the 2021 GSMA Mobile Economy Report, approximately 303 million people, or 28% of the population in sub-Saharan Africa, are currently connected to mobile internet.

This figure is expected to rise to around 40% by 2025, presenting a larger market for internet-based businesses and services like TaskMate. These services are capitalizing on both internet connectivity and Africa’s young demographic.