Most of us probably take for granted the default Facebook app. This is because we live in developed countries where internet is generally fast, stable, and widely available. However for those who don’t have access to these facilities, this is where apps such as Facebook Lite come in handy.In fact it seems that Facebook’s decision to create a “Lite” version of its mobile app was a hit because according to Facebook’s COO Sheryl Sandberg (via TechCrunch), it seems that the app is now boasting over 200 million users on a monthly basis. This is quite a feat considering that at the start it did feel like a bit of a niche app.
According to Sandberg’s post on Facebook, “Today we’re sharing that more than 200 million people are using FB Lite – our low bandwidth version of the Facebook app. We’re committed to connecting people with the things they care about – no matter their connection, device or where they live. In many areas, networks can be slow and unable to support all the functions available on Facebook. FB Lite gives people access to core Facebook experiences like News Feed more quickly and while consuming less data.”
Facebook isn’t alone in launching “Lite” apps aimed at emerging markets. YouTube has launched something similar called YouTube Go, and messaging app LINE has launched a Lite version of its app as well.
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