We have already Commented It helps that Facebook's app for Google's operating system switched from HTML5 to native Android, which allows it to run much better (just as Mark Zuckerberg promised). Well, now its messaging development, called Facebook Messenger, with two really interesting options: the possibility of sending voice messages and also be able to make calls through VoIP (WiFi or data connection).
This is a definitive step on the part of this company to position itself in the market of messaging applications, one of the most widely used in mobility. Therefore, it attempts to compete directly with developments such as WhatsApp, Line and Skype. And, to achieve this, different options are offered that allow it to be a very valid option and, thanks to the fact that it has a database of users really big, there is no doubt that Facebook Messenger is a formidable rival.
With regard to voice messages, something that very little has been seen to date in messaging applications, the use is similar to walkie-talkie. Recording is done using a button with a red dot at the bottom and then sent to the selected contact. Simple and fast… and with nice results since, for example, happy birthday can be sung in this way.
Voicemails: How they work and what options they add
With the update, Facebook Messenger adds the ability to send voice notes short-lived. In practice, it is enough to open a conversation, tap the microphone icon (or the “+” button for attachments on some devices) and hold it down to record. When you release it, the message will be sends automatically to the recipient. If you change your mind, slide your finger off the button and the recording will be cancel not sent.
These notes are reproduced with a integrated audio control in the chat, so the other person can press play and listen instantly. In the first iterations, the duration is usually limited to up to a minute per clip, and the app prioritizes the live recording compared to sending existing audio files, which streamlines the conversation flow and reduces compatibility issues.
To complete the experience, Messenger maintains its classic options: emoticons, sending of photos from the camera, gallery or Internet links, group messages and notifications push very fast. All within an interface intuitive and with reliable message delivery, similar to other popular platforms.
VoIP calls, adapting to the future
Well yes, little by little almost all messaging apps are including this option, two clear examples being Line and Skype (and perhaps one of WhatsApp's biggest "musts" to date). The reason is quite simple: apart from offering messaging, which is a great thing to include multimedia files, each time the calls via WiFi or data connection -known as VoIP- is more refined and of higher quality. Therefore, in order to keep up, Facebook Messenger now offers this option. Its use is simple, you select "Make a call" and, of course, as is normal, it is necessary that the recipient have the same application installed.
In addition to the above, the company has opted for an approach P2P in the voice connection between users when the network allows it, which reduces latency and improves quality in stable environments. According to the first public tests, the option of free call appears in the conversation information panel and allows you to start VoIP with one tap. Data usage is borne by the rate of the user when there is no WiFi, although it does not subtract voice minutes from the operator's traditional plan.
The deployment of VoIP calls is usually done in a progressive by regions to ensure stability. It was initially tested in specific markets (such as Canada) and then quickly expanded to other countries and platforms, including versions of Android and iOS.
Advantages over other apps and details to keep in mind
It is undeniable that Facebook continues to take steps to always be an excellent option for use (such as the purchase of Instagram at the time) and this one that has been given with Facebook Messenger is a clear example of this. With this strategy, it aims to ensure that the user does not have to salir of its ecosystem to communicate by text, voice or calls, competing with WhatsApp, LINE, Skype or Whatsapp o Viber.
- Call quality: It depends on coverage and bandwidth; on stable Wi-Fi the experience is noticeably better.
- Data consumption: VoIP uses your data plan; if you're looking for zero cost, connect to WiFi.
- Compatibility: both interlocutors must have the updated app and the feature enabled in your region.
- Privacy and control: the voice notes remain in the thread chat; it is not always possible to save them outside of the conversation.
An interesting point is that Facebook Messenger allows the registration with mobile number instead of requiring a Facebook account, facilitating adoption among those simply looking for a messaging and calling app. Furthermore, the company often accompanies these improvements with bug fixes and performance optimizations that benefit both high-end and more modest devices.
Download, requirements and recommendations
If you want to try this free messaging program, you can download it here link from Google Play. The only thing you should have is an operating system Android 2.2 or higher and 5,5 MB of free space on the terminal. In practice, the requirements Specifics may vary with each update and it is generally recommended to keep the system and application in their original state. last version available to take advantage of all voice and VoIP features.
Usage tips: check that the connection be stable before starting a call; use auriculares to improve voice clarity; and, if your data plan is limited, prioritize calls from WiFi. For voice notes, remember that releasing the button will send them; if you want to discard them, slide finger off the button before releasing.
With the jump to native app and the arrival of voice messages y VoIP callsMessenger gains speed, versatility, and a communication layer that covers everything from the immediate nature of an audio clip to long conversations at no additional cost in minutes, consolidating itself as a very complete alternative within the mobile landscape.