Facebook Lite Android App

Facebook has been lately launching various standalone apps including the Messenger app, Groups, and recently Rooms. Now, the latest in the series is called Facebook Lite, a lightweight version of the mobile Facebook app for users with poor-quality mobile Internet connections in emerging markets.A spokesman told AFP in an email that the "Facebook Lite" Android app is designed "for people on 2G (second-generation) connections or in areas of limited Internet accessibility."

TechCrunch reports that the app has been launched in select Asian and African markets over the weekend including Bangladesh, Nepal, Nigeria, South Africa, Sudan, Sri Lanka, Vietnam and Zimbabwe. Unfortunately, the app is currently not available in India; though we can expect a rollout soon.

Facebook says it is currently testing the app, and is reported to have plans for a wider rollout. The report however speculates, "Facebook could quietly can the project if it doesn't believe it is worth pursuing."
The Facebook Lite Google Play listing notes, "This version of Facebook uses less data and works in all network conditions." It adds that the app is less than 1MB (precisely 252KB) in size and designed for 2G networks and areas with limited network connectivity.