Facebook tests WhatsApp button in main app on Android

Facebook is constantly testing out new things in its main app. This time around, it’s looking to bring attention to its subsidiary WhatsApp. The social network is placing a dedicated WhatsApp button on the main Facebook app, which can be accessed from the menu tab. The button is basically a shortcut to the WhatsApp, so you don’t have to leave the app to launch the messaging service. It’s not showing up to all users and the one who found the shortcut claims it showed up for him when he switched Facebook’s language setting to Danish. It’s not surprising as Facebook has done some limited testing in that country before. Whether this gets a wider release is something we can’t confirm. From our end, Instagram also has this quick launch shortcut on Facebook.

Source: The Next Web

Facebook compiles best emergency tools into new Crisis Response hub

Facebook is bringing together all its emergency features into one place, which should definitely come in handy in times of need. The Crisis Response hub will house Safety Check, which will surface to the top of the hub if you’re in an area affected by a calamity or tragedy; links to helpful crisis-related articles, photos, and videos; a community help feature that will let you ask for and give crisis-related advice; and access to fundraisers and non-profits that will let you donate or help out during relief efforts. The hub is accessible both on desktop and mobile. It’s rolling out in the coming weeks so watch for it.

Source: The Next Web

Facebook tests coloured background comments

You've seen the coloured status messages, you've probably written some. But Facebook seems to be taking it further and testing the feature to mobile first. And we have to say, it doesn't look pretty. There are seven colourd/gradients to choose from and yes, we don't like any of them. We're hoping this doesn't leave the testing phase.

Source: The Next Web

"Humans of New York" docuseries coming to Facebook

Based on photographer Brandon Stanton's popular blog "Humans of New York" a new docuseries of the same name will debut next week on Facebook's new platform, The Watch. The 12-episode series will feature interview wiht the same diverse subjects often featured on his popular blog. The half-hour series will also be executive produced by Julie Goldman, the Oscar-nominated documentary producer behind such films as Life, Animated and Weiner. New episodes will be relased weekly.

"Humans of New York" Facebook series will offer intimate, candid and often surprising conversations with strangers on the streets of New York City. Stanton began working on the project about four years ago and has interviewed more than 1200 people. 

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