Changes announced this week by CEO Mark Zuckerberg to Facebook reflect an increased focus on privacy. Speaking at Facebook’s F8 developer conference on 30 April 2019, Zuckerberg highlighted Facebook’s focus on a privacy platform and outlined changes happening this year on the app. These developments are important to understand for public relations and communication professionals. Here are five of them.
- Facebook: In line with Facebook’s belief that “there is a community for everyone,” the app will highlight groups and events, creating a prominent “Groups” tabs and a personalised feed from the groups you’ve joined – rather than a generalised update feed from your friends. The focus of Facebook’s “FB5” project is to make Communities as central as Friends.
- Expanding Social Circles: The re-design includes a new feature called “Meet New Friends”, which connects strangers who have something (like a school or employer) in common.
- Easier Access to Events: The latest improvements to the app will also offer an easier way to find events near you.
- 3D Photos Features: Facebook will add the option to create 3D photos, which you will be able to upload on the web or on your mobile device.
- New Ads Manager and Business Manager: The improved tool will include a new Ads Manager interface, which includes simplified navigation, a cleaner design and improved campaign management. Changes to the Business Manager include a better, faster and seamless process that makes it easier to access historical reporting.
The changes will be rolled out during 2019.