News by: Bertel King 30 October 2013
Facebook is redesigned. The new version is currently rolling out to a limited number of
users, with a wider release planned for the coming weeks.
What's New:
Facebook said they're removing SMS support, but the app currently still
wants the ability to read and send text messages. Though, there is a
chance this could have something to do with two-factor authentication.
You can see the full list for yourself below, just keep in mind that
these permissions could change before the wide release.
The introductory splash screens also leave the impression that Messenger
maintains support for SMS. It prompts for your phone number, but this
is there just so you can use it to verify your account if you lose your
password. A separate screen invites you to text friends, but it really
wants you to invite all of your contacts into Facebook and use the
service as your new way to send texts between phones. This version
allows people to message contacts that they aren't Facebook friends
with, scanning their list of phone numbers for those with Facebook
accounts associated with them and letting users communicate without
having to send out a request.
The new interface looks more iOS 7 than holo, but it's smooth and zippy.
Facebook should tread
carefully if it doesn't want its apps to end up looking too much like Skype.
Sending messages is quick, and while the new look is far airier, it
still manages to feel familiar. The location tracking toggle is still
present, and massive smileys are tucked away where you remeber, just
waiting to scar unexpecting Facebook friends.
Messenger now has a tab that makes it obvious who is currently active on Facebook and shows whether they're using a web browser or a mobile device. A blue badge also shows who has the Messenger app installed. I would call this page one of the more delightful additions to the app.
Messenger now has a tab that makes it obvious who is currently active on Facebook and shows whether they're using a web browser or a mobile device. A blue badge also shows who has the Messenger app installed. I would call this page one of the more delightful additions to the app.
Update: The new version also has a tablet UI that slightly differs from what you see above, a first for Facebook Messenger.
Download:
Before downloading the new version from either of the two mirrors
provide below, there are a few things you must do. First, you need to
uninstall the previous app. Then you have to go to the Play Store and
disable auto-update. For whatever reason, Messenger internally carries a
lower version number than the app currently offered on Google Play, so
your phone will want to "update" back to the previous release.
There you go. Have at it.
Download link: FB Messenger-Mirror1,FB Messenger-Mirror2
news source: androidpolice.com
