1&1 integrates popular web apps into MyWebsite tool

Internet hosting firm 1&1 has boosted the functionality of its MyWebsite building tool, allowing users to integrate popular web applications with their sites.

The firm has added 100 web applications, allowing users to add business specific applications ranging from eCommerce to social media.

Popular apps that are supported include Amazon, eBay, PayPal, Google+, LinkedIn, Skype, Pinterest, as well as the obligatory Facebook and Twitter.

To place a web app on the website, a user simply needs to login as the admin, pick the web app tool, then drag and drop the element wherever they want to on the page.

The web apps are deeply integrated into the MyWebsite design. For example, if a restaurant business adds the Yelp template, all the latest reviews are displayed on the page within a widget and it means customers will not have to click away from the site.

1&1 plans to add further apps to the service over the next 12 months to help SMBs add extra functionality to their websites.

"Consumer expectations for websites are continuing to increase. It is no longer a a case of maintaining an online business card, but rather providing a complete sector-relevant resource to interact and fulfill more customers needs as conveniently as possible," said Oliver Mauss, 1&1 CEO.

The MyWebsite tool is available from 9.99 per month, and 1&1 does offer a 30-day free-trail. Packages with enhanced functionality such as web apps start at 19.99 per month.