Mobile

Facebook Home: Review Round up

Vamien McKalin

Facebook Home is the Social Network's latest foray into mobile, and it could be its best attempt yet. However, it's actually just another Android launcher with some fancy new features and a pretty face. So how long will it be before the novelty wears off and users return to using the regular Facebook application on their phones?

Here's a quick roundup of some of Facebook Home's reviews on the Internet:

Tech Land - "Should you be one of the earliest adopters? If you like Facebook and have a phone that will work with Facebook Home, trying the software is a risk-free proposition; you'll probably be able to tell within minutes whether this first version speaks to you. If it doesn't, you can delete it (or leave it installed in stand-alone app form, so it's available but doesn't take over your home and lock screen)."

CNET - "As far as Facebook is concerned, the main point is that you'll begin to use its Facebook services more than you use generic Android functions. In some senses, reskinning the home screens to a giant Facebook slideshow really does work. My engagement dramatically jumped while I was using Home, although I also wasn't sure I was seeing the highest-quality 'news' in my feed. Since I couldn't view my entire news feed, I couldn't tell if I was viewing the most complete or recent list of updates. Scrolling through Cover Feed may have made me a little more entertained, but it sure didn't make me feel any smarter."

The Verge - "I don't know if Facebook will reach its target audience with Facebook Home. Although Chat Heads are great, the Home experience itself simplifies app management to a fault. I fully recognize that most people don't give their homescreens much thought and don't invest much time in customization, so it's entirely possible that I'm off the mark and there's enough functionality here for casual smartphone users — but I don't think I am."

As it stands, Facebook Home is mainly for the hardcore Facebook junkie who needs an easier way to keep up with all the madness. Probably what Facebook really wants is its own phone, so this launcher alone will not cut it for the long term.

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