Facebook Messenger for Android gets a new look, adds SMS functionality

21 Sep 2012

Facebook Messenger logo via Wikimedia Commons

Android users get two treats from Facebook today: an update to the Facebook app and the stand-alone Facebook Messenger app that not only makes the service look better, but also adds the ability to send texts through Facebook.

In the updated Facebook Messenger app, users can bring up the chat window (which in-browser Facebook users will be familiar with) by swiping their finger to the left anywhere in the app. This screen displays who is available to chat and, just like the browser-based version, friends that users message most frequently will appear at the top of the list.

But the biggest design change-up is in how these conversations actually appear on-screen. Facebook Messenger now mimics the way SMS messages are viewed on smartphones (much likes communications apps Viber and WhatsApp do, too).

Facebook Messenger screenshotFacebook Messenger screenshot

The conversation layout is now more attractive, less cluttered and a lot easier to follow. This new view will also be available in the main Facebook app and, inside this app, users can tap the icon on the top right of the screen to access the chat window and find out who’s available to talk.

Facebook App update

Facebook’s move to become a communications hub

Facebook has also added SMS functionality to the new Facebook Messenger. Users can now text contacts directly from the app and these texts can be viewed alongside Facebook messages, as well as emails to users’ @facebook.com email addresses, all in one place. Clearly, Facebook wants to be a one-stop-shop for users to communicate with friends.

Facebook Messenger screenshot

This feature is only available on certain phones, though, as Facebook works towards adding more devices down the line. Currently, TechCrunch finds it’s compatible with the HTC EVO 3D, HTC One X, LG Optimus Black, LG Optimus Hub, Samsung Galaxy Ace, Samsung Galaxy Nexus, Samsung Galaxy S III, and Samsung Galaxy Y.

The Android update for Facebook Messenger is available today, while an iOS update will arrive later. Because the app will now require access to your SMS functions, the new update will not be rolled out automatically but can be manually downloaded from Google Play.

Elaine Burke is the host of For Tech’s Sake, a co-production from Silicon Republic and The HeadStuff Podcast Network. She was previously the editor of Silicon Republic.

editorial@siliconrepublic.com