Facebook is a huge social media platform that rolls out updates nearly every day. These updates aim to make social media surfing smoother and more entertaining.
But Facebook is planning to put out a number of major updates that are set to improve and even completely change the way the platform is used. Keep reading to learn more about these updates.
AN INCREASE IN PRIVACY OPTIONS
Ever since it was discovered that data from Facebook was leaked to a third-party advertiser that may have influenced voting in the 2016 U.S. Presidential election, Facebook has been under a microscope.
The company, as well as Mark Zukerberg himself, have made a commitment to make privacy options more of a priority on the platform. New updates will include stronger encryptions on private messages. Some worry that this will make it harder for Facebook to investigate harassment claims, but a lot about this update is still unclear.
A CRYPTOCURRENCY
You’ve likely heard of cryptocurrency, an online form of money that is largely universal and managed entirely through the internet. Some major cryptocurrencies include Bitcoin, Dash, Litecoin, Ethereum, and Ripple.
But Facebook is unveiling a new cryptocurrency called Libra. This will allow transactions to be near universal on Facebook’s platform. However, because of the aforementioned data leak, many question Facebook’s ability to handle people’s crypto-cash.
However, Facebook maintains that the fact that Libra is protected by blockchain technology, has a set value, and is managed by the Libra Association (which has the responsibility of positively impacting the ecosystem), makes the currency a good option.
MORE SOCIAL GROUPS
Now more than ever, social media is less social than its name would imply. That’s why Facebook is making a commitment to creating more groups and pages with specific capabilities that will help people with similar hobbies and interests connect with one another.
There will be more opportunity to communicate privately between group members. Additionally, Facebook will likely begin to suggest more groups to you based off of your interests.
CROSS-PLATFORM MESSAGING
Facebook is the owner of many apps, including WhatsApp and Instagram. The app is going to start allowing you to message friends from other platforms in Facebook’s Messenger app. This is a great way to interconnect for personal accounts, but also for business accounts. You would receive message notifications in one place, where you could easily reply to friends, family, and customers.
CONCLUSION
Facebook is certainly rolling out some interesting updates that are sure to change the way we use the social media platform. And these four are only scratching the surface! Facebook is also planning to do a logo and platform redesign that will provide a more minimalistic appearance.
The most important thing Facebook must focus on is improving privacy and security options for users. If the users feel comfortable and feel that their data is protected, they are sure to use Facebook’s new cryptocurrency when it comes out.
Communication degree in journalism, radio, and TV/multimedia. She has worked with local ESPN radio, the Associated Press, and admitopia.com. Gabrielle is an award-winning journalist, receiving a first place award in N.C.
