With a new format brave eBay attacks classic television channels such as QVC or HSE. Ebay Live brings together auctions, live streaming and live interaction. In the future, users will be able to take part in live events via apps or websites where retailers, brands or content creators present their products. What’s special: Everything happens in real time, from viewing to bidding or buying.
Hard eBay This new offering is intended to combine the spontaneity of a classic auction with the immediacy of a live experience. Prices, availability and offers are displayed during transmission. Through integrated chat, viewers can ask questions to which the presenter responds immediately. They present articles from different points of view and explain the details, almost like in a live studio, only digitally.
Auction without second thriller
Whoever is bidding stays in the stream, the purchase and bid are live on video. A new feature prevents last-second offers from being made to trick others. The so-called “soft close” automatically extends the countdown if the offer is accepted shortly before the end. Ebay wants to create more fairness and maintain enthusiasm at the same time. This technology comes from a version that has been tested in the US and UK.
Ebay relies on proximity, not just technology
“AI makes shopping smarter – but good commerce must remain human. The future belongs to platforms that combine gaming, storytelling, social interaction and shopping into a seamless experience. Ebay Live clearly shows that technology, community and trust are one in the same,” said Dr. Saskia Meier-Andrae, Managing Director of eBay Germany. Today, customers want more than just product photos: they are looking for orientation, entertainment, and trust.
With Ebay Live, the company combines technology, community and shopping into an experience that feels more like gaming or social media. Preliminary drawings will be presented on November 29, 2025 at Comic Con Stuttgart. First of all, this offer is available in the “Collectibles & Rare” and “Apparel & Accessories” categories. Other regions will follow in the coming months. Ebay wants to take the next step in online commerce, moving away from pure click-through purchasing and towards interactive shopping experiences.
