South Africa’s largest classifieds site, Gumtree.co.za, has launched a new Android and iOS app featuring a host of updated features designed to make navigating the platform more effortless, safer, and faster.

The new Gumtree app now automatically filters content and search results based on the user’s location, making finding the exact items they're looking for even simpler. The app also incorporates a Profile Verification feature, designed with safety in mind, and has made its popular MFC vehicle finance option available on its new platform.

Claire Cobbledick, GM of Gumtree South Africa, says the app will make buying and selling new and used items on South Africa’s largest marketplace an even more enjoyable experience. "We're always striving to improve our customers' experience on our platforms, and our new app is another step towards ensuring that South Africans can buy and sell items with confidence."

Gumtree’s newly developed Profile Verification feature, backed by credit information bureau XDS Solutions, provides an additional layer of security by ensuring both buyers and sellers can verify their South African ID numbers.

Users can distinguish verified buyers and sellers by a badge on their profile, which indicates that they have proven their identity and can be trusted. Cobbledick says facial recognition software used during the process will ensure that fraudsters cannot use stolen ID documents, giving users the confidence of knowing that the person they’re interacting with on the app is who they say they are.

The new app also gives users access to finance on affordable vehicles through its partnership with MFC, a division of Nedbank. This will give buyers peace of mind knowing that the car they want to buy has been police and accident cleared and approved for finance. In addition, buyers will know upfront in their car search that they can get trusted finance for their private vehicle sale.

“Our platform has always been a trusted and familiar place where millions of South Africans can buy a new car, search for the latest electronics, or find items they weren't even aware they needed. That’s why we’re committed to continuously updating our platforms to meet the growing needs of our valued customers," concludes Cobbledick.

The new Gumtree app is available for download on Google Play for Android and the App Store for iOS.