Technology
The feature is being tested in countries where Snapchat adoption numbers are low, possibly to grab the competitor's potential userbase.
Updated : Mar 12, 2018, 06:20 AM IST
Facebook is reportedly testing out a new Snapchat-like feature on its Messenger app in certain countries.
According to TechCrunch, Polish users are reporting a new “Messenger Day” tool, that lets people share photos and features with filter, text, and drawing options, that disappear in 24 hours. In a response to the publication, Facebook wrote, “We know that people come to Messenger to share everyday moments with friends and family. In Poland we are running a small test of new ways for people to share those updates visually. We have nothing more to announce at this time.”
The feature, very similar to Snapchat’s own “Stories” feature (as well as that of Instagram), could help Facebook leverage its international popularity to snag users in countries where its competitor does not yet command a significant userbase.
Users can use use Messenger Day to draw and add text or filters to their photos and videos. At the top of the Messenger app, users with the new feature can see a side-scrolling list of thumbnails; one for their own shareable “Day” and others for ones their friends have shared. In this case, filters include quick templates for activities like going for a drive or grabbing a coffee, as a quick touch up on photos for users with limited artistic ability.