Microsoft inviting beta testers for new Facebook application for Windows Phone 8

Facebook for Windows Phone is going through a major overhaul, and not too soon either. Despite the smooth flow and elegant user experience of Windows Phone applications, the Facebook app is severely lacking in features compared to the native applications available for iOS and Android.

Facebook for Windows Phone is developed by Microsoft, not Facebook itself, making it a third-party app essentially. Microsoft, to its credit, is responding to user feedback and has version 5.0.1 available for beta testing.

The best part is that anyone can download and use this version while keeping the current version on their device. Microsoft asks that people that download and use the beta provide feedback via Settings>>About in the application.

Microsoft also gives fair warning, if you do not like it when apps crash, this probably is not the program for you. However, looking at user feedback so far in the Windows Phone Store, initial impressions are significantly positive. When you see the difference in the interface, that feedback could be just a “star struck” effect from seeing something new with added functionality. Of course, the new look is basically an image from iOS or Android, and that may have some Windows Phone purists concerned.

New features are aplenty, including support for high-resolution photos, post sharing, and Facebook Timeline. There is no word on how long this beta program will last. Also, the app supports English language only, though there is no indication that the beta is restricted to US users only.

The beta cannot be found by searching the store. You can either go to the source link below and direct your Windows Phone there or point your Windows Phone 8 device and install it manually here.

Share with us what you think and do not forget to leave feedback with Microsoft via the app.

source: Windows Phone Blog