Facebook just updated your application for the operating system Android (closer to a native app) and, among the improvements there is one that is essential: speed of execution is improved of the registration phase and when navigating through the existing sections. That is to say, it just fixes, if we believe the company, one of its most serious failures.
This isn't the first time Facebook has promised this, so we have to be cautious, but let's hope it delivers this time. It's a little frustrating to see how the same app for Apple's iOS or Microsoft's Windows Phone works much better. We don't know what the problem is, but let's hope that this time they hit the right note.
Another novelty in the new version of Facebook for Android, 1.9.7, is that, now, to be able to use it, it is necessary to have, at least the Froyo version of the operating system. Currently, there are not many devices that use it (except for the oldest ones, which will have to settle for using the previous versions), as shown by the latest data, which indicates that less than 6% of Android users continue with Froyo. Therefore, it shouldn't be a big problem for this update to be deployed effectively.
Another great novelty is that now front camera can be used with the app. A nice addition, but what was the reason why it wasn't like this before? Additionally, minor bugs have been fixed as usual, and also now users have the option to go directly from the messaging to the section to share photos, One new options with photos. Another good arrival that increases the usability of the application.
As always, the application remains free and if you want to download it, you just have to use this link from the Google Play store..
AI Recommendations and Content Discovery
Meta is powering the feed with Artificial Intelligence systems that suggest photos, groups and videos based on your interests and explicit feedback. Tools like “Show more / Show less” They fine-tune recommendations and act as a signal to help the algorithm understand your preferences without invading your experience.
The platform claims to have safeguards to avoid suggestions that violate the rules, while exploring integrating the Messenger tray within the app itself to make it easier to access messages without switching applications.
In addition, it expands the Professional Mode for profiles, offering creators more options monetization and statistics, and the optimization is made Reels recommendation so that relevant content reaches more users with less friction.
Tools for businesses and creators
Small businesses can take advantage of a unified inbox (Messenger, Instagram Direct and web chat) and sending promotional messages to subscribed users to reactivate customers and improve loyalty.
It also simplifies the creation of ads that open chats on WhatsApp, even from WhatsApp Business, reducing steps and accelerating campaigns aimed at conversations risk management.
For creators, testing and expansions continue ads on Reels and incentive programs, with formats that allow revenue based on views and participation, as well as management from Creator Studio and clearer reporting tools.
Privacy, security and feed control
Facebook has strengthened the moderation in Groups with utilities such as Admin Home, Administration Assistant for custom rules and conflict alerts based on AI. These features help curb problematic conversations and maintain healthy communities.
Regarding the feed, the classification combines signals such as Inventory (everything they could show you), señales (your previous interaction), predictions (what you are most likely to be interested in) and a punctuation that sorts each post. This allows you to have more control about what you see and why you see it.
In messaging, the company works on the interoperability to allow compatible third-party services to communicate with Messenger or WhatsApp under standards of encryption equivalent, respecting safety and quality requirements.
Messenger experiences, payments, and audio formats
Messenger has incorporated improvements such as quickly answers to full-screen multimedia content and Topics to personalize chats, in addition to video calls. The deployment of Facebook Pay unifies payments across the Meta ecosystem for purchases, donations, or person-to-person transactions in supported markets.
In content, they are tested live audio rooms, compatibility with podcast in-app listening and creation tools AI audio (filters, effects and transcription), facilitating new accessible and monetizable formats.
Meta also powers hands-free experiences with Ray-Ban StoriesIncluding voice commands, an AI-powered assistant with contextual features to uncover relevant information when looking at places or capturing memories.
Lightweight alternatives to the official app
If you are looking to reduce data consumption and improve the fluency, there are alternative clients that prioritize performance and privacy, such as in our five alternatives: Facebook Lite for modest equipment, Faster for Facebook Lite underweight, Flour which integrates Facebook and Messenger, Phoenix with familiar interface, SlimSocial de open source y Swift for Facebook Lite with advanced customization options. Customize permissions, download size, and features based on your needs.
