Updates:
Facebook is hosting its annual F8 conference in which the company showcases its coming additions, updates and more.
Here's what's been announced.
First off, Facebook's getting a makeover, with a new look that may be an attempt to shift away from the traditional Facebook blue
They are rolling out some new, dedicated features for specific groups:
Through new Health Support groups, members can post questions and share information without their name appearing on a post.
Job groups will have a new template for employers to post openings, and easier ways for job seekers to message the employer and apply directly through Facebook.
Gaming groups will get a new chat feature so members can create threads for different topics within the group.
They’ve provided this cool I’ve got a crush on you feature in Facebook Dating, which is being rolled out to 14 new countries, in addition to the five it's already active in. It’s something like you can add people to a secret crush list. No one will see it unless they’ve listed you on their list too. I though that was kind of neat.
They are adding a new option that will enable Marketplace sellers to ship items anywhere in the continental US, and for buyers to pay for their purchases directly on Facebook.
They are adding a new Events tab which will show you more of what’s happening around you , and will include refined recommendations, local business listings and new tools to help organize outings with friends.
A new, dedicated desktop app for Messenger, expanding the potential use cases for the app.
A new option to limit your Messenger interactions to selected groups of close friends only. This jumps out at me as very bad for marketers...especially those of us who use Messenger bots. I’ll be looking into this and getting back to.
Facebook's also adding new Messenger lead generation templates to Ads Manager. This sounds interesting and I will investigate.
They are adding a new option which will enable people to view Facebook video content within chat groups in Messenger.
there’s a new product catalog option which will allow you to view what’s available from businesses without having to leave the platform.
Facebook says that it's also making messenger faster and more reliable, with an entire rebuild "from the ground up".'Shop from Creators', is a new option which will facilitate direct buying from specific users and their posts.
Instagram's also adding an option for you to raise money and awareness for nonprofits you care about via donation stickers in Stories.
They are reducing the focus on follower counts in the latest version by making them less prominent, and they're also testing hiding like counts to reduce the emphasis on vanity metrics.
Lastly Instagram is rolling out a new camera design, including 'Create Mode', which will give users an easier way to share "without a photo or video".
