Facebook Messenger just surpassed 1.2 billion users. Facebook Vice President of Messaging Products David Marcus made the formal announcement this past Wednesday, stating that there are, “… over 1.2 billion people actively using Messenger every month.” It’s an appropriate occasion to celebrate, especially when you consider how Facebook’s popular app stacks up to other services. Despite the audiences that the likes of Twitter and Instagram enjoy, Facebook continues to reign supreme in this respect.
If you’ve been using Facebook Messenger for a while, there’s a good chance that you know the basics. Messenger has far more to offer than what exists on the surface. As a matter of fact, there are many features that you should think about trying out on your own time. Maybe they’ll encourage you to use this app more often.
Below are five useful and interesting features Facebook Messenger users should really know.
5 Interesting Features Facebook Messenger Users Should Know
Payments – The next time that you message someone, tap the “+” symbol next to the camera. This will bring up a number of options, but one of the most interesting is Payments. As you might have guessed by the name, it allows you to send payments to that person. Furthermore, the process is secure, meaning that you won’t have to worry about your sensitive information being compromised. If you owe money for a gift, concert ticket, or what have you, this option is worth using.
Games – Even though Instant Games gained coverage late last year, I don’t see many people talking about it. This is unfortunate, seeing as how Messenger offers a number of games that are fun to play from time to time. Everything from arcade classics to more modern favorites are offered, not only in single but multiplayer as well. For those that are looking for quick entertainment in the waiting room, for example, a round of Pac-Man awaits.
Request a Ride – Are you stuck in the city, in town, or some area where transportation isn’t nearby? If so, you can use the Request a Ride feature. You can call Uber or Lyft, depending on the account that you have, and have a driver arrive in no time. Many Facebook Messenger users don’t know about this feature, which can lead to more headaches than necessary. To say that this can save time and reduce stress would be an understatement.
Video Calls – Do you want to contact someone via video, but lack Skype or FaceTime? If so, Messenger has you covered. This app allows you to make video calls for free, meaning that you won’t have to cover any subscription costs. It’s also worth noting that you can make these calls anywhere, provided you have sufficient data or a strong Wi-Fi connection. If texts and phone calls aren’t enough, this option offers another line of communication.
Group Calls – What if there’s an important matter that you need several people on the line for? Facebook Messenger offers group calls, where up to 50 people can be added. This is ideal for businesses, but virtually any group can take advantage of them. If you’re part of a baseball group, planning how to go about the day of the big game, a group call via Messenger can prove useful. This feature is particularly worthwhile for the social butterflies among us.
Do you have any fun or interesting tips regarding Facebook Messenger? Feel free to share them in the comments below!
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