New Facebook Messenger users can't use the app without a Facebook account

Facebook used to allow anyone to use the Facebook Messenger app without needing a Facebook account. But now, the company will require new users to have one if they want to use the messaging app. A spokesperson for the company confirmed that this change would only affect new users. Those who already use Messenger won't need to do anything. But VentureBeat reported that some users are experiencing some issues with them being restricted from using the service. The change might be due to Facebook's plans to make its different messaging apps (including WhatsApp and Instagram) interoperable.

New Facebook Messenger app is available on the Microsoft Store

Facebook released a new beta version of its Messenger app on the Microsoft Store. Now powered by Electron instead of OSMeta, the feature set is closer to the iOS and Android versions of the app. It works on x86 and ARM processors. The app features a clean look with light and dark mode, as well as the option to attach files. The update seems to be rolling out in stages, so you might need to be a bit patient if it hasn't made its way to you yet.

Source: Windows Central

Facebook to soon allow you to transfer photos and videos to Google Photos

It will soon be possible to export your Facebook photos and videos by bulk to other online services. But the social network will be starting with Google Photos, and it will be coming to Ireland first. The feature is part of the Data Transfer Project, which is an agreement between Google, Microsoft, Facebook, and Twitter to allow easy, bulk transfers between services. Facebook intends to roll out the feature globally in the first half of 2020.

Source: Facebook

Facebook tries out new search interface on Android

Facebook for Android users in Canada might be seeing a new search interface show up on their apps. The interface shows you topics it thinks you might be interested in along with links and posts related to them. So, for example, you like music, it'll surface content related to the topic. Think of it as something similar to Instagram's search page where you're shown photos from topics you might be interested in. The test is being conducted here, in South Africa, and in the Philippines. There is no word yet if it will be getting a wider release, or if the testing extends to iOS. But the renders Facebook sent to MobileSyrup show the interface on an iPhone.