Facebook has quietly begun testing a new Data Saver option for cellular connections in its Messenger client for Android devices.
If you find yourself chewing through your monthly data bundle thanks to Facebook Messenger, this one’s for you – multiple users have reported that Facebook has quietly begun testing a new Data Saver feature which allows users to conserve their spend over cellular connections.
Specifically, Messenger’s Data Saver feature – when enabled – disables the automatic download of both images and videos. While using the feature, users will have to consent to download an item before it will be shown in a chat.
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The feature only functions on cellular connections – devices connected to Wi-Fi will still automatically download images and video without consent.
Further, when Messenger’s Data Saver feature is enabled, users will be able to track how much data they’ve saved as a result – the counter itself can be reset from the settings menu.
The feature is the latest addition Facebook has brought to its Messenger platform as part of its plan to make the service more accessible for those living in data-strapped environments. Earlier this month, Facebook debuted Messenger Lite – a companion app for its data-friendly Facebook Lite app.
The move sees Facebook eye its next billion users, the majority of which are located in emerging markets such as South Africa where cellular connectivity remains a premium if it is available at all in remote regions. The social media hopes to remedy the latter issue through initiatives such as Internet.org and its Aquila drone.
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What are your thoughts? Would you use Messenger’s Data Saver feature if it were rolled out on Android, globally? Be sure to let us know your thoughts in the comment below!
Follow Bryan Smith on Twitter: @bryansmithSA
