Social media giant Facebook is now testing a new version of its leading app that enables users to directly access a Snapchat-style camera, encouraging individuals to take tons of photos and videos and decorate them with styles, stickers as well as filters.
The test began last August in Canada and Brazil which marks the day where Facebook initially used a video effects app called MSQRD that the company bought in March. The move, which initiated days after Instagram added aesthetics similar to Snapchat, is a manifestation of the company's desperation with regards to the growth of competitor Snapchat as it saw a decline of shares in its own social media platforms, according to The Verge.
The participants of the testing, which was in timing with the beginning of the Summer Olympics held at Rio de Janeiro, found that the FB app opens in a usual and conventional News Feed where all of them are familiar with. But in the canvass where posts and statuses are usually written, an open camera will appear instead. Users have to tap this to initiate a full screed mode and from then on, photos are easily captured as well as short video clips. If the user is using front camera, MSQRD's augmented reality filters are possible to be used to take more creative and fun selfies.
News about this testing could also be seen in countries such as Poland however, it's slightly different in contrast with the one being tested in Brazil and Canada.
On the app tested in Poland, a similar Snapchat-like feature is being tested, as reported by Indiana Express. However, instead of being in the flagship app of Facebook, it is integrated in its messaging app which allows users to integrate bunch or graphics or text on pictures as well as short videos before users share them with their friends. The site actually posted a screenshot of the new feature, which is known as the Messenger Day, and it could be seen just right above the conversation thread.
Reviews and opinion with regard to these new features of Facebook are mixed with good and bad judgements. Some users would say that Facebook is a copycat of Snapchat, others may seem to be cool with it.
