The previously optional Facebook Messenger app has now become a mandatory part of the social network's mobile experience. If you haven't received a notification yet about downloading the messenger in order to keep using the chat function, better expect it soon.
Apparently, Mark Zuckerberg sees brighter horizons in making the Messenger an important business. During the recently held report of the company's earnings, Zuckerberg said that 200 million people use the app at least once a month and this compulsory shift will not only benefit the fiscal concerns of Facebook but more importantly provide one of a kind mobile chat experience. In an official statement, posted on Techcruch, Facebook said:
"In the next few days, we're continuing to notify more people that if they want to send and receive Facebook messages, they'll need to download the Messenger app. As we've said, our goal is to focus development efforts on making Messenger the best mobile messaging experience possible and avoid the confusion of having separate Facebook mobile messaging experiences. Messenger is used by more than 200 million people every month, and we'll keep working to make it an even more engaging way to connect with people."
Competing with popular messaging apps like Viber, WeChat, Kakao Talk, Line, and Snapchat, Facebook Messenger also offers interactive features like photo sharing, group messages, video call, stickers, and audio clips.
As per Techcrunch's interview with Product Design Manager Luke Woods and Perter Martinazzi, Facebook's standalone messaging app is now designed with cleaner interface promoting faster way to interact with friends. Users can easily identify who is available on Messenger through bright blue icon on the lower right corner of their friend's thumbnail:
Zuckerberg didn't go into details when it comes to monetizing the app, but the CEO guaranteed that they will not be taking "cheap and easy approach and just try to put ads in."
"The payments piece will be a part of what will help drive the overall success and help people share with each other and interact with businesses," he added.
Now, Facebook is clearly eyeing on strengthening its messaging services as Messenger runs alongside WhatsApp which was acquired by the company early this year.
The only question right now is on how Facebook users are going to feel about this mandatory shift. Do you find the Messenger app more convenient? Sound off in the comments section below!
