DJs

Facebook Lasso is a TikTok alternative for iOS and Android

Facebook Lasso is a TikTok alternate for iOS and Android


Facebook has just released Lasso, an alternative to the extremely-popular TikTok. Just like its competitor, Lasso lets you create and share short videos with fun effects and join a vast collection of music, filters, effects, and trending hashtags.

You can download Facebook's Lasso for Android through the Google Play Store and Lasso for iOS from the Apple App Store

Android iOS
Download from Google Play

Download from Apple App Store
Free Free
Android iPhone, iPad or iPod Touch

Lasso features include:
  • COOL CAMERA TOOLS AND EFFECTS - Get high-quality video editing tools, effects, text on video tools, music and more from the in-app camera.
  • A MASSIVE MUSIC LIBRARY - Lasso's music library is one of the biggest. From pop hits to vintage classics, you'll find whatever song you need to take your videos to the next level.
  • THE LATEST HASHTAGS AND CHALLENGES - Lasso lets you know which hashtags are trending and which ones might be soon. Be one of the first people to discover a new trend or one of the first to create a video for it!
  • SHARE DIRECTLY TO YOUR STORY - Lasso seamlessly connects to Facebook so you can post your videos to your story with a single tap. Whether you want your video to show on all your social profiles or just in one place, you have control over what you share and where it goes.
With TikTok's popularity exceeding 500 million monthly active users and its creators rising to become the world's most valuable startup, it makes sense that Facebook will want to take advantage of the market segment its appealing to. However, Lasso is currently US-exclusive while TikTok has a global reach, and while Lasso has received a generally positive feedback on both app stores, it will be a while before it can think of catching up with or overtaking TikTok's market share.
DJs

Facebook Portal coming to TVs with 'Project Ripley'

Facebook Portal coming to TVs with 'Project Ripley'

Facebook Portal was the social network's first step into consumer hardware with their introduction of two smart displays that kept you connected to your Facebook account at all times. Now with 'Project Ripley' Facebook plans to take it one step further.

In what is looking to be another bold hardware initiative, Project Ripley hopes to add a Facebook-connected camera on top of your TV. This would in turn allow video calling on your big screen, while supporting Facebook Watch along with other streaming platforms.

The advantage over a device like this over Facebook Portal and Portal+ would be its significantly lower price, due to the fact that it would be using your existing TV display. Currently, Spotify and Pandora are the only big names supporting Facebook's Portal devices. In order for this venture to be successful, Facebook would have to partner with more high-profile content providers like Netflix and Amazon if it wants to compete with Google, Roku and Apple. Project Ripley is "still in development" and is set for a spring of 2019 release.

Facebook is reportedly also working on “Edgefield”, “Innatum”, and “Sequoia” projects. These ambitious, futuristic, revolutionary products include an armband capable of translating sounds into vibrations that can be understood through human skin, a device reading brainwaves to anticipate what the user intends to type, and a virtual object projector supporting advanced AR experiences like displaying virtual board games on a physical table.

source - Cheddar
DJs

Facebook lets you turn regular photos into 3D

Facebook lets you turn regular photos into 3D

Facebook is introducing a new feature which lets you convert your regular photos on Facebook into 3D. Once you publish a 3D photo, you will be able to rotate your phone around or swipe with your finger to get a better view of the subject and scene.



Obviously since these photos are not captured in 3D, Facebook doesn't actually have 3D models or references of what you are viewing. Instead it uses AI and software algorithms to generate what the scene would look like, so results wont results wont always look perfect. In order to get the best results, Facebook suggests that you use pictures with a lot of contrast between the background and the foreground.

Facebook 3D photos can be viewed right now, but the ability make your own will roll out gradually.


source - Facebook | Techcrunch
DJs

Facebook Portal and Facebook Portal+ announced with Alexa support and 'Smart Camera'

Facebook Portal and Facebook Portal+

Facebook has joined the consumer hardware market with the release of the Facebook Portal and the Facebook Portal+ - Two smart displays that use Amazon's Alexa as their virtual assistant.

Facebook points out however that “Alexa features and functionality may differ slightly on Portal and Amazon devices.” So for example users will be using the “Hey Portal” phrase to initiate Facebook Messenger video calls. Since it works across platforms, you can even talk to your friends who use Messenger on their phones.

Facebook Portal

The smaller of the two devices features a 10.1 inch display. You get voice-enhancing 4-mic arrays with 360-degree pickup ensuring your Portal always hears you and Facebook's 'Smart Camera' technology that lets the camera follow your movements around your room. The regular Portal is priced at $199.

Facebook Portal (1)

Facebook Portal (2)

Facebook Portal (3)



Facebook Portal+

The larger Portal+ features a 15.6 inch display and an impressive audio setup made up of a pair of tweeters, single 4-inch bass, and 20w audio output. You get the same voice-enhancing 4-mic arrays with 360-degree pickup and 'Smart Camera' technology which allows you to move around the room as you speak and have the camera follow your movements. The larger Portal+ is priced at $350.

Facebook Portal+ (1)

Facebook Portal+ (2)

Facebook Portal+ (3)


Both the Portal and Portal+ are "private by design" according to Facebook, who vows never to listen, view or store the contents of your video calls, keeping them secure at al times with strong encryption. The Smart Camera uses localized AI functionality for its facial recognition, so none of that data is saved by Facebook either. physical camera cover provided with each Portal and Portal+ unit, as well as a button allowing you to completely disable the camera and microphone.

Both Portal units will feature services from Spotify, Pandora, and iHeartRadio enriching your smart display experience. Facebook has an ongoing deal for anyone purchasing two regular Facebook Portals, offering the duo for $298.


source - Facebook
DJs

WhatsApp for Windows Phone finally receives voice calling

Quick take: WhatsApp for Windows Phone has officially gained voice calling support, bringing the platform closer to feature parity with Android and iOS.

After first testing the feature through its beta channel, WhatsApp has officially rolled out voice calling support to WhatsApp for Windows Phone.

Android and iOS users had already received voice calling earlier, and this update finally brings the feature to Microsoft’s mobile platform as well.

Key Takeaways
  • WhatsApp voice calling is now available on Windows Phone.
  • The feature was previously limited to beta testers.
  • Version 2.12.60 also adds audio file sharing support.
  • The update supports Windows Phone 7.5, 8.0, and 8.1.

Windows Phone finally catches up

Voice calling was first announced by WhatsApp in April, not long after Facebook acquired the messaging platform in a deal worth more than $20 billion.

While WhatsApp maintained strong support for Android and iPhone, the Windows Phone version often lagged behind in terms of features and updates. This release helps close that gap by adding one of the platform’s most requested features.

WhatsApp’s voice calling service also entered a competitive space dominated by apps like Skype and Viber, both of which already had a strong presence on Windows Phone.

Additional features in version 2.12.60

Alongside voice calling, WhatsApp version 2.12.60 also introduced support for sending audio files on devices running Windows Phone 8.1.

The update is available now through the Windows Phone Store.

Voice calling

WhatsApp users on Windows Phone can now place internet voice calls directly inside the app.

Audio sharing

Version 2.12.60 adds support for sending audio files on Windows Phone 8.1.

Compatibility

The update supports Windows Phone 7.5, Windows Phone 8.0, and Windows Phone 8.1.

Version 2.12.60
Platform Windows Phone
Price Free
Feature Voice Calls
WhatsApp Windows Phone QR code

Source: WhatsApp

DJs

Facebook Messenger updated with free video calling to 18 countries

Facebook Messenger updated with free video calling to 18 countries

Facebook Messenger for iOS and Android has been updated with support for video calling in 18 countries, including the US. With this new feature, Facebook Messenger becomes a competitor in the video calling market which includes popular apps like Skype.

You can download the update directly on your device through its respective App Store, or by using the following links:

Android iOS
Download from Google Play
Download from Apple App Store
Free Free
Android 4.0 or greater iOS 7.0 or greater

You can initiate a video call directly from Messenger app when you are chatting, by clicking the video icon in the top right corner of the screen opens the video calling app. This will work even if the video chat is between an iOS user and an Android user. Unfortunately Windows users have been left out of this update for now, but we hope it will follow shortly.

enable video call on Facebook Messenger

Right now, the countries supporting the service include the U.S., Belgium, Canada, Croatia, Denmark, France, Greece, Ireland, Laos, Lithuania, Mexico, Nigeria, Norway, Oman, Poland, Portugal, U.K., and Uruguay. Other countries will be added to this list over time.

Video call between iOS and Android on Facebook Messenger

Facebook says that it has 600 million monthly users of Messenger and Facebook continues to expand the capabilities of the platform. For example, it recently gave subscribers the ability to send money to friends. Speaking of money, video calls are free on Facebook Messenger, although they will consume your data. Your best bet is to try to find a Wi-Fi connection before clicking on that video icon.
DJs

Facebook Hello for Android is a dialer which makes your handset smarter

Facebook Hello for AndroidFacebook Hello for Android is a dialer app which aims to make your Android handset "smarter" and "great at being a phone." It does this by using its immense database of information, and using the caller's Facebook profile to let you see who's calling (even when you don't have certain numbers saved in your phone).

You can also search for places and people on Facebook, and even block unwanted calls. When someone calls you, their latest Facebook profile photo and updated info (including birthdays) shows up on the screen. Additionally, the new dialer app offers free calling and texting through Facebook Messenger.

You can download the app directly on your Android device through the Google Play Store or by using the following link:

Download
Download from the Google Play Store
Price Free
Requirements Varies with device

It is not known if Facebook plans to offer its Hello dialer for iOS or Windows Phone users.



DJs

WhatsApp for iOS will support voice calls in just a matter of weeks

WhatsApp for iOS will support voice calls in just a matter of weeksDuring the Facebook F8 developer conference on Thursday, WhatsApp co-founder Brian Acton made it clear that the feature allowing live phone calls to be made from the app will be offered to iOS users in a matter of weeks. He stated that WhatsApp had just the last year getting the feature for Android users, and that the iOS platform was the next in line for the update.

Currently the voice call feature on Android requires an invite, so not all users can test out making calls on Google's mobile platform. The only way to gain access to the feature is to be invited by a fellow Android user in order to make calls using the app or by gaining root access to your device. Eventually, Android users will be able to make calls through the messaging app without having to be invited to use it.

Even iPhone users can make calls using WhatsApp right now, but they may have to be willing to jailbreak their handset. In any case, an official update to WhatApp for iOS should bring the native calling feature in a few weeks anyway.


source - VentureBeat | Forbes
DJs

Facebook Lite for Android, a lighter client intended for emerging markets

Facebook Lite for AndroidFacebook is one of the most downloaded apps on the Google Play Store. Still it consumers a lot of data and battery life, which doesn't make it suitable for emerging markets. Facebook Lite for Android hopes to resolve this by offering a lighter and better Facebook experience.

The Facebook Lite app is only aimed at emerging markets at this time, namely Bangladesh, Nepal, Nigeria, South Africa, Sudan, Sri Lanka, Vietnam, Zimbabwe, and others. Still persistent Android users can sideload the app onto their devices using the source link.

You can download the app directly on your device through the Google Play Store or by using the following link:


Download
Download from the Google Play Store
Price Free
Requirements Android 2.2 or greater


Essentially, Facebook Lite for Android is a web-based client, which allows you to make use of all essential features of the social network. Browsing your news feed, liking and commenting posts, editing your profile, uploading photos, creating albums, updating your status, and even chatting with your Facebook friends from within the app.

If you live in a region which supported Facebook Lite for Android, do try it out and leave us a comment letting us know what you think.



source - TheNextWeb | APKMirror
DJs

Facebook for BlackBerry 10 updated

An updated version of Facebook for BlackBerry 10 has been released on BlackBerry World. This is the same version of the social networking client which has been available as a beta in the BlackBerry Beta Zone since last month.

Amoung the new features is the abilty to add a photo as a comment on a post. Posts with multiple pictures can be viewed as a collage. Photos and stickers can be viewed in the comments section, and the update will allow you to view additional story types. Lastly, with the update you will be able to easily access the publisher bar at the bottom of the screen.

You can download the update directly on your device through BlackBerry World or by using the following link:

Download Download from BlackBerry World
Price Free
Requirements BB 10.0.0 or higher

The version of Facebook for BlackBerry will differ based on the BlackBerry 10 device you own, but you should notice most of the new features across all the BlackBerry 10 devices.


DJs

Facebook for Windows Phone updated (8.3.4.0) with sticker comments and improvements

Archive notice: This is a historical post. The Windows Phone Store has been discontinued and Windows Phone is no longer supported. The content below is preserved for reference.

Facebook for Windows Phone was updated to version 8.3.4.0, bringing the same improvements that had previously been available to beta users. The headline addition was the ability to view sticker comments, alongside a solid set of stability and performance improvements across the app.

What's New in Version 8.3.4.0

Sticker comment support was the main new feature in this release. Beyond that the update was focused on reliability, covering fixes for feed resiliency and navigation, UI issues affecting users on the light theme, data sense settings, and notification navigation. Localisation fixes, general bug fixes, and performance improvements rounded out the release.

Facebook 8.3.4.0 for Windows Phone

DJs

WhatsApp for iOS updated (2.11.14) with support to iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus

WhatsApp for iOS updated (2.11.14)WhatsApp for iOS has been updated to version 2.11.14 which included support for the larger screens of the Apple iPhone 6 and Apple iPhone 6 Plus, along with the usual bug fixes and performance improvements. WhatsApp is a popular cross-platform messaging service, which was recently purchased by Facebook.

You can download the update directly on your iPhone through the Apple App Store or by using the following link:



Download Download from iTunes
Price Free
Requirements iOS 4.3 or greater

WhatsApp took their time adding support for the iPhone 6 and iPhone 6 Plus. The company did release a beta version which supported Apple's newer devices, but it was limited to those who were jailbroken and knew their way around installing IPA files. Fortunately the update is now available for everyone to enjoy.
DJs

[iOS app] Facebook Messenger updated (9.0)

Facebook Messenger for iOSThe  app has been updated to version 9.0 which brings some stability and performance improvements along with the ability to share and view full screen photos and videos.

You can download the app directly on your device through the Apple App Store or by using the following link:

Download Download from iTunes
Price Free
Requirements iOS 7.0 or greater


Facebook Messenger for iOS is a fast and easy way to stay in touch with your family in friends. Facebook Messenger for iOS has the following features:
  • Get to your messages without opening Facebook.
  • Bring your conversations to life with stickers.
  • Send photos privately.
  • Have group conversations and make plans on the go.
  • Text your phone contacts, even if you're not Facebook friends.
  • Share your location so people know when you're nearby.
  • Record voice messages.
  • Make free calls, even to friends in other countries.
  • Know when people have seen your messages.
  • See who's available on Messenger and who's active on Facebook.
  • Stay logged in so you never miss a message.
  • Turn off notifications when you're working, sleeping or just need a break.
DJs

[iOS app] Facebook Messenger updated (7.0) with native iPad support

Facebook Messenger for iOSThe  app has been updated to version 7.0 which now includes native support for the Apple iPad. Even though the social network's developer team has taken their time to release the app, the result is well worth the wait.

You can download the app directly on your device through the Apple App Store or by using the following link:

Download Download from iTunes
Price Free
Requirements iOS 7.0 or greater


On Facebook Messenger for iPad, you can make calls or send messages, pictures, and stickers to other users, just as you would on your iPhone or iPod Touch. The developers have taken the time to nicely adjust the user interface to take full advantage of the larger iPad screen real estate.

Additionally the update also brings the ability to save videos you captured in Messenger on your device camera roll along with the usual bug fixes and performance improvements you can expect with a new release.

DJs

Facebook (beta) for Windows Phone updated with new design and features

Archive notice: This is a historical post. The Windows Phone Store has been discontinued and Windows Phone is no longer supported. The content below is preserved for reference.

The Facebook beta app for Windows Phone was updated to version 8.3.0.1, bringing a significant design overhaul alongside a handful of useful new features. This was one of the more substantial updates the beta app received, moving away from the older layout in favour of a cleaner, more modern interface.

New Design

The top of the app gained a News Feed text banner with a Search button and a current online contacts list sitting below it. A new header with five icons provided quick access to News Feed, Friend Requests, Messages, Notifications, and your profile, all reachable from a single tap. A new bottom bar added three buttons for Status updates, Media uploading, and Check-in, with the central camera button now supporting video uploads to your Facebook account for the first time on Windows Phone.

Other Improvements

Beyond the design changes, version 8.3.0.1 added support for additional languages and delivered general performance improvements throughout the app.

Facebook Beta 8.3.0.1 for Windows Phone

DJs

Facebook updated for iOS and Android

Facebook

Facebook for iOS has been updated to version 11.0, while Facebook for Android has been updated to version 10.0. While the official changelog suggests that it is merely a set of rudimentary bug fixes and performance enhancements, it seems the update brings some useful new features and improvements

You can download the app directly on your device through its respective app store or by using the following links:

Android iOS
Download Download from Google Play Download from Apple App Store
Price Free Free
Requirements Varies with device iOS 6.0 or greater

Among the improvements is the Nearby Friends feature, which the company unveiled recently. While it is currently only available for Facebook Users in the US, Nearby Friends will allow you to share your location with friends who are closeby. This is a map based feature, which should make it easier to find your friends when you meet up next time. Nearby friends requires users to opt-in so you can be assured that your privacy won't be compromised in anyway.

Facebook for Android brings a few new features of its own including the ability to "like" posts, photos, and pages without an internet connection. So if you're scrolling through your stream but don't have a data connection, no worries - just hit the "like" button and forget about it. The action will of course sync once you get signal. Facebook for Android also adds the ability to remove tags you've created, or untag yourself from friends' content. Users can also turn post notifications on or off, and the update adds - of course - "improvements for speed and reliability."


Links to this Page
  • [iOS app] Facebook updated (11.0)
  • [Android app] Facebook updated (10.0) with ability to like things offline, remove tags and more
DJs

[Android app] Facebook Messenger updated (5.0) with built-in selfie cam, video uploads and quick links for photos and voice messages

Facebook Messenger for Android has been updated to version 5.0 which brings a few interesting new features and improvements. Facebook Messenger for Android allows you to stay connected to your Facebook friends on your mobile device and even includes threaded SMS support.

You can download the update directly on your device through the Google Play Store. You can also download the update and find out whats new after the break.

Download
Download from the Google Play Store
Price Free
Requirements Android 2.2 or higher


On the updated Facebook Messenger for Android, you will notice a new row of icons along the bottom of your device screen when you open a new or archived chat with someone. These new functions include: standard text, take an instant photo, upload a photo, insert a sticker, voice message, and "like," which inserts a giant thumbs up into the conversation. When you use the instant photo feature, it will open up a little "selfie" window just below your conversation, so you don't even have to switch to the camera app to start shooting. You can also switch to your rear camera instead.

Additionally the app now supports sending videos from your device directly in chat if you've got Android 4.3 or later. If you really must, now you can find sticker packs more easily: just tap a sticker that your friend uses and it will open the store page for the relevant pack, which you can download and/or pay for. Facebook also claims the update offers faster contact search.

Facebook for Android lets you:
  • Get to your messages without opening Facebook.
  • Chat with groups and make plans on the go.
  • Bring messages to life with stickers.
  • Send photos privately.
  • Keep the conversation going: with chat heads, you can chat while using other apps. 
  • Text your phone contacts, even if you're not Facebook friends.
  • Share your location so people know when you're nearby.
  • Record voice messages.
  • Make free calls, even to friends in other countries.
  • Know when people have seen your messages.
  • See who's available on Messenger and who's active on Facebook. 
  • Stay logged in so you never miss a message.
  • Turn off notifications when you're working, sleeping or just need a break.
DJs

Facebook introduces optional Nearby Friends feature for Android and iPhone

Facebook Nearby Friends for Android and iPhone

Facebook just announced a new feature for Android and iPhone users called Nearby Friends. This is an optional feature that "occasionally" notifies you when Facebook friends are nearby, allowing you to "get in touch with them and meet up".

Users can turn the Nearby Friends feature on (or off) at any time, and they can choose which friends to see. To detect a friend nearby, both you and your friend will need to have the new feature enabled. You can choose to share a particular location with a select group of friends for a set period of time. When the feature is enabled, the friend will be able to see exactly where you are on a map.

Nearby Friends can also be used when you are travelling, so your friends who have been to a location you are visiting will be able to give your recommendations on places to see or restaurants to dine in. 

According to Facebook, Nearby Friends will be available in the US in "the coming weeks." as an update to Facebook for Android and Facebook for iOS. You can find out more about Nearby Friends at the source link below.




source - Facebook
DJs

[Android app] Facebook updated with a new user interface


Facebook for Android has been updated with a new user interface which is flatter and easier to navigate through. This is the same design which was released for a short period on Facebook's alpha channel several months ago. Facebook for Android is now visually more similar to its iOS counterpart in terms of looks, as both the buttons and the interface elements are now even more minimalistic and simplified.

You can download the update directly on your device through the Google Play Store. You can also download the update and find out whats new after the break.

Download
Download from the Google Play Store
Price Free
Requirements Varies on Device


The Facebook for Android app also brings several enhancements to its user interface. Previously users could only swipe between the leftmost menu, news feed, and Facebook chat. Now new buttons have been added on the main screen to view your notifications and friend requests.

This means Facebook users on Android will have five different tabs to swipe between - their news feed, friend requests, messages, notifications, and the Facebook menu, which can be found furthest to the right. Fortunately, the Facebook chat window has been kept unchanged, but you can't access it via swipe, you have to tap the top right button instead.

Additionally the Status, Photo and Check In posting options are now located on the bottom of your screen. They will disappear automatically when you scroll down through your news feed and appear again when you scroll up.

Along with all these new features, the update also brings several performance improvements and bug fixes to the app, which should enhance the reliability and overall speed. If the update is not available immediately it may take awhile to reach your device as such updates are generally rolled out in phases.

DJs

Facebook Messenger for Windows Phone updated (3.1)

Facebook Messenger for Windows Phone updated (3.1)Facebook Messenger for Windows Phone has been updated to version 3.1 which brings a few new features and improvements. Facebook Messenger for Windows Phone lets you stay connected to your Facebook friends across the web and their mobile devices.

You can download the update directly on your device through the Windows Phone Store. You can also download the update and find out what's new after the break

Download Download from Windows Phone Store
Price FREE
Requirements Windows Phone 8

Press the Search searchbutton on your Windows Phone, tap Vision vision and then scan the following barcode by pointing your device camera toward it



Facebook Messenger for Windows Phone version 3.1 has the following new features and improvements:
  • You can now save photos.
  • Notifications are more reliable, so you never miss a message.
  • The app uses less data.
  • Overall performance has improved.
Check price on Amazon