Kalaro, a fully integrated esports super-app, was launched globally by a Singapore-based software company on July 25 in Manila.

"The Kalaro super app was created not only as a platform for gaming mastery but as an esports monetization engine designed for earning," said Kalaro Founder and CEO Jun D. Lasco. "This will be a game-changer in the esports industry, creating continuous gamer engagement via its in-app social media module, e-wallet, currency, brand storefront, and tournament management module."

Lasco emphasized that monetization has become a significant challenge in the industry due to the ranking algorithms of platforms like YouTube and Facebook. Kalaro aims to solve this by facilitating continuous engagement through live and recorded tournaments, watch parties, and live podcasts or training videos broadcast within its social media hub.

Kalaro will be demonstrated live at the Philippine Gamedev Expo (PGDX) 2024, which will be held from July 26 to 28 at the SMX Convention Center. The expo will showcase the latest in gaming, esports, game publishing, and development.

The app's social network hub for gamers aims to make finding teammates, coaches, or competitors fast and fun. "While LinkedIn is for professionals and Facebook is for everyone, Kalaro is the social platform for gamers," said Lasco.

Kalaro also serves as a brand engagement engine, allowing brands to reach and engage with 43 million Filipino gamers, keeping them updated on the latest trends in esports.

Lasco highlighted that joining tournaments is essential for gaining mastery in any sport. With esports recognized by the International Olympic Committee, Kalaro's automated tournament management module allows cost-effective and profitable tournament operations, benefiting gamers and brands.

Kalaro's in-app currency, Kalaro Gems, and Gem loyalty points can be used to purchase gaming merchandise within the app. The e-wallet can be topped up via popular wallets like GCash, GrabPay, Alipay, and online banking transactions, with an option to load via 7-11 stores nationwide. Union Bank of the Philippines manages Kalaro's e-wallet transactions to ensure security and prevent fraud.

Open beta testing began in October 2021, gathering feedback from over 10,000 testers. The Global Esports Federation (GEF) became a strategic partner after the Olympics Esports Week in June 2023, and Kalaro acquired its first U.S. investor in November 2023.

"The release of Kalaro version 2.1 today is the culmination of four-plus years of development and fine-tuning our business model," said Lasco. The app now includes AI-powered gamer matching and a dedicated 'My Profile' section for showcasing gamer profiles and content.

The majority of esports titles include fighting games, first-person shooters (FPS), real-time strategy (RTS), traditional sports, and multiplayer online battle arena games (MOBA), with MOBA being the most popular in terms of participation and viewership.