Facebook has launched a new standalone ‘Lite’ app for low-end Android powered smartphones, mainly targeting users with limited network connectivity in emerging markets.
AFP cited an undisclosed Facebook spokesperson as saying that the new ‘Facebook Lite’ Android app is developed ‘for people on 2G connections or in areas of limited Internet accessibility’.
Another report from TechCrunch noted that the new app will be rolled out in select Asian and African markets over the weekend.
Despite the app being in its testing phase, the tech major is planning for a wider rollout, with speculations that ‘Facebook could quietly can the project if it doesn’t believe it is worth pursuing’.
The new app’s Google Play listing noted: "This version of Facebook uses less data and works in all network conditions."
Based on Facebook’s feature phone client Snaptu, the new app is below 1MB (precisely 252KB) in size and is compatible with Android 2.2 and above.
It comes with some native Android features including push notifications and camera integration.
Furthermore, the social network has rolled out a project called Internet.org in a bid to help get connectivity to underserved regions of the world.
