Facebook has launched a slimmed-down version of its Messenger app, dubbed Messenger Lite. This new version is less than 10MB in size thus installs and starts-up rather quickly and consumes fewer data when using.
It also offers some features of the regular Messenger including messaging, sending/receiving pictures, links, and stickers. It also has the same bolt logo Messenger has but in the colors are reversed. The Messenger Lite bolt is blue with a white chat bubble in the background.
Why Messenger Lite?
Messenger Lite is the Facebook solution to users’ connection problems on slower than average internet speeds; in markets where the Android smartphones are prevalent. They do not have an iOS version; apparently chances of an iPhone user being on a ‘slower than average network’ is slimmest to none. Pun intended!
The app is first being rolled out in phases, with Kenya, Sri Lanka, Venezuela, Malaysia, and Tunisia being on the first wave of countries where it is availed. More countries will follow later in due time.
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Stats by Facebook show that over 1 billion people across the globe use the Messenger app every month. Although some with more difficulties than others, particularly the users in countries with slower than average internet speeds.
Facebook is hoping to see a bump in those numbers as the the light version of the app will make it easier and cheaper for users with poor connection to start and keep using the platform. The app is also tailored to run smoothly on entry-level smartphones (Android smartphones) that lack the heavy specs for a seamless run of its Messenger app.
This app is a complement to the Facebook Lite, also meant for users on slower than average internet connections. The app is already available for download in Kenya. You can download it here from the Google Play Store.