Facebook tries out temporary reactions starting with a flower for Mother’s Day

We’re not sure if this’ll show up on your feed but if you suddenly find a flower there, that’s Facebook way of helping you commemorate Mother’s Day. The social network giant is supposedly testing out temporary reactions to add to the six existing ones just for Mother’s Day. These digital flower reactions are said to be coming to a few markets in time for the special occasion. Facebook won’t say though which markets will be seeing the feature. But better keep your eye out on the 8^th and also if you can, please buy actual flowers for your mom or at least something she’d appreciate.

Source: Sreedev Sharma @ Twitter | Via: The Verge

Facebook trying out Snapchat-like disappearing messages on Messenger

Facebook seems to be taking the cue from Snapchat and is testing out disappearing messages on its Messenger for iOS. The screenshots posted by Twitter user @iOSAppChanges show that users can set time limits for their messages, whether these be for a minute, after 15 minutes, an hour, four hours, or one day. This could appeal to users, especially the young crowd who use apps like Snapchat, who don’t want to have their messages stay online. It could also give its users more control over their private communications and even help deter Facebook from getting embroiled in its own Apple vs. FBI-like battle since it can no longer access these disappearing messages.

Source: MacWorld

Facebook brings group calling to Messenger

Aside from being able to make free voice calls over at Facebook Messenger, the app now has group VoIP calls from its Android and iOS apps. All you need to do to start a group call is head over to a group you want to talk to and tap the phone icon. From there, select which members of the group you want to include. You can have up to 50 friends on the same call. It’s a simple feature that might be useful for some. It’s rolled out globally to both platforms today.

Source: Lifehacker + The Verge | Download: Google Play Store (Free) + iTunes App Store (Free)

Facebook’s ‘Safety Check’ acts up following Pakistan bombing

One of the useful Facebook features is its “Safety Check,” which lets its users check in following a natural disaster or attack in an area. It seems to be acting up a bit though and has started to ask users who are nowhere near the Lahore Park explosion in Pakistan to check in. The tragedy has already killed 50 people. It’s not clear what’s causing the issue from Facebook’s end. But let’s hope it isn’t affecting those who are actually in Pakistan who want to reach out to their loved ones and say they’re okay.

Source: The Next Web