Facebook discontinues mobile chat feature directing users to download the Messenger app
Facebook has removed the chat feature from its Android and iOS apps instead opting to suggest smartphone users download the standalone Facebook Messenger app in a move which has concerned users of the social network.
The Messenger app will likely see a high uptake
The site's plan to outsource its chat service to another app, first announced in April, will be fully implemented this week despite complaints from the public questioning the legitimate need to move the features.
The move, which Mark Zuckerberg last week said would help eventually monetise the app, will force users to integrate with the dedicated messenger service which has more than 200 million monthly users, merely a fifth of Facebook’s user base.
The free Messenger app supports the sending of text messages, internet video-calls, group chat and picture and video exchanges between those who have the app installed on their devices.
It remains to be seen whether smartphone users will download Facebook’s suggest messaging app as there are many alternative options available from app stores.
The social network also owns Facebook Messenger's main competitor WhatsApp after acquiring the service for a staggering $19bn earlier this year.