Facebook Messenger (NASDAQ:FB) is expanding its capabilities to include video in a similar format as Snapchat.
The social media site has announced a feature called “instant video” that allows you to share a short video while you are chatting to a friend. Through this medium, you can add a short multimedia message to someone you are connecting with to expand on the limitations of simply writing words to someone.
All you have to do is enter “instant video” on Facebook Messenger and you can record a short video that can have a number of functions. The network suggests that you can use the feature to show a friend a piece of apparel and ask them what they think about it, or see if they can recommend the right food for you to order at a restaurant.
The company wrote that video calling is still in its early stages for its website and it has only been used for special occasions so far. However, the app’s developers recognize the potential it had in inviting younger generations to become more involved in Facebook Messenger.
“Instant video is a reflection of the ubiquity of video — we simply expect to have that ability in real-time, all the time,” Facebook Messenger developers wrote.
You will need to download the newest version of the app for iOS or Android in order to access this new feature.
FB stock is up 0.1% Thursday.
