April was a big month for Facebook, among some of the changes that they implemented were new security tools, Facebook Deals, and the Facebook Send button. Each of the new features was designed to provide users with a safe and beneficial user experience.
The first of the three features that Facebook released was a New Suite of Safety Tools. The new security provides users with additional information for user and family safety. In addition to the existing safety content the new resources include articles and videos on Facebook security and privacy. Along with the new safety content users will now be able to use social reporting tools to express to the community what items they do not like or find offensive. Another part of the new security features is two factor authentications. Two factor authentications are used to further prevent unauthorized users from accessing other user accounts. This protection procedure requires a secondary code when logging in from an unrecognized device or location. The last announced security update for Facebook is the option for users to access Facebook using a secure connection over HTTPS. However, because some apps do not accommodate HTTPS Facebook will need to automatically switch between HTTP and HTTPS given the user’s authorization.
Following the implementation of their new security, Facebook also launched Deals on Facebook. Deals on Facebook is currently being tested and is only offered in certain areas like Atlanta, Dallas, Austin, San Diego, San Francisco (many more to follow shortly). This feature lets Facebook users locate deals from local businesses, share, and coordinate plans with other Facebook users. Deals on Facebook will work similar to Groupon and Living Social but are now built right into the social network, which is convenient for both customers and businesses who utilize Facebook.
The latest addition made to Facebook is the “Send” button. This new button is very similar to the “like” button which was introduced last year. The new send feature works in rhythm with the Share with a Group feature that lets users categorize their friends into smaller groupings for more specific sharing. Now with the send button specific sharing is taken to the next step and allows a user to specifically select which friends should receive the message. Like the Like button, the send button will be located on the websites so users can quickly share their experience with other designated users. The send button can already be found on over 50 of the leading website and may eventually be utilized as much as if not more than the current like button.
It’s clear that April 2011 gave way for some significant changes to Facebook and leaves us with the question, what’s next for Facebook? What do you think they should attempt next? Whether it’s solving an issue with an existing feature or an entirely new concept, share your ideas below!
Thanks for reading!
Dustin
Tags: Facebook, facebook deals, internet, like button, send button, social networking, Users
