Hi5 Publishes Virtual Currency Browser Toolbar

This week the social entertainment network Hi5 released a browser-based virtual currency application compatible with the Internet Explorer, Firefox, and Safari Web browsers. The app adds a Hi5 toolbar to the browser after it is installed. The toolbar allows users to log into their accounts, contact friends, update profiles, receive notifications, play games, and earn virtual currency whenever the browser is open. The app was developed using the Conduit platform. 

The browser toolbar app is intended to drive stickiness and monetization for Hi5. The network's userbase appears to be shrinking, as Hi5 now claims only 50 million monthly visitors where it claimed 62 million at this time last year. This seems strange after Hi5's repositioning as a social gaming site, especially since it's added usually-sticky features like customizable avatars in the past year. 

The toolbar seems to be a stab at driving engagement with Hi5 without asking users to open the Hi5 Website directly when engaging with it. Users will be able to purchase Hi5 Coins through the toolbar, which they can then spend on virtual goods or virtual gifts. The toolbar will also make it easier for friends to contact players about social gaming, another destination where players can spend Hi5 Coins. 

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