Facebook has introduced 'Facebook Lite', a lighter version of their native app which is designed to work even when the internet connection is slow, originally intended for low-end Android phones being used by people in developing countries.
Compared to the traditional Facebook app, the slimmed-down version one uses fewer data and can work with 2G networks. Even in places with limited internet connectivity, users can still enjoy connecting with their family and friends.
The social media giant already began releasing the app in Asian countries and in some parts of Africa. The company also plans to issue the app in some areas of Europe and Latin America.
CEO Mark Zuckerberg recognizes that not all countries have unlimited access to Internet connection that is fast enough to load webpages and apps within seconds.
"In many areas, networks can be slow and not able to support all the functionality found in Facebook for Android. Facebook Lite was built for these situations, giving people a reliable Facebook experience when bandwidth is at a minimum," said Zuckerberg.
The new app is part of the company's move to provide quality service to its 1.44 billion monthly active users. It is less than 1MB in size, can be installed in just a few seconds and quick to load.
While it doesn't provide all the features of the original Facebook app, the Lite version will still let you browse your News Feed, share photos, update your profile, like and comment on posts.
Facebook has been testing the new app for more than a year under the supervision of product manager Vijay Shankar.
While the app is still under development, the company has been receiving positive feedback from early downloaders. Many are already clamoring for it to be available in their locations.
Facebook Lite is rated four stars and has 50,000 reviews in Google Play.
