- Facebook claims the Messenger Kids’ update is a test
- The redesign aims to simplify kid’s interaction
- New messages will appear on the top with bold text and a blue dot
- Rollout is limited to the US and Canada and will expand to other regions soon
Facebook is launching its updated Messenger Kids app. The new design will make it easier for kids to interact with their friends, navigate the app, and personalize their chats. The redesign provides the kid-friendly app a Messenger-like look-and-feel. The update brings significant changes over its previous version.
What does the update bring?
Unlike its predecessor, the new version ditches the larger, colorful blocks that flashed when a new message arrived. Instead, a more traditional messaging app design is introduced. Now the chats are stacked in a vertical list. All the unread messages are now available at the top of the inbox. The kids will easily differentiate them from the bold text with a blue dot next to the messages. In addition to the eye-catching details, media and message previews have also been added. These previews will allow kids to see updates for their conversations more easily.
The update receives new navigation with a redesigned look. The navigation panel will house dedicated ‘Chat’ and ‘Explore’ navigation tabs at the bottom of the screen. This change will allow kids to switch between their conversations and other in-app activities. For example, while keeping the chat active, the kid can access in-app activities like mini-games in some apps. The new swipe gesture will enable the kids to start a call directly from their inbox.
The update introduces a new option to personalize conversations. The customizations include both individual and group chats. Also, kids can choose a custom chat bubble color.
Facebook claimed the update to be a ‘test,’ but the changes are nothing short of a major revamp. This makes it unlikely that the changes are experimental and will later be rolled back upon user feedback. One reason to call it a ‘test’ can be presumed to give it more time. This way, Facebook can make appropriate changes before rolling it out globally.
Facebook’s statement
Facebook says the new features will begin rolling out to the kids using iPhones in the US and Canada. In later phases, the update will roll out to other devices and markets. The Messenger Kids app has been receiving regular updates since its launch.
Facebook recently explained how it uses the data collected from its users. Parents should also be aware of the data collected by such apps. It collects personal information like names, profile photos, demographic details, gender, birthday, app usage information, etc.
