Facebook for Windows Phone Gets Revamped; Adds Messenger Integration

Facebook on Monday rolled-out a major update for its Windows Phone app, which has a new user interface design and some updated features.

The social networking giant had updated its Facebook for Windows Phone app the last month, but in beta. "Today, Facebook for Windows Phone is receiving a major update that brings an updated design and new features that were previously available in beta," said the post on the Windows official blog site on Monday.

The new Facebook app version 5.3 for Windows Phone adds support for more languages, and lets users record videos and upload them from within the app itself. The company also notes the new Facebook Messenger integration with the updated Facebook app, adding a Messenger button on top that will switch quickly to the Messenger app. Users trying to type a message will also be directed to the Facebook Messenger app, which will also feature a button to take users back to the main Facebook app.

For Windows Phone 8.1 users, the new Facebook app connect directly with the People Hub (Contacts) of the smartphone. Facebook adds that with Windows Phone 8.1, Facebook contacts, events, and photo albums are now "powered by the Facebook for Windows Phone app."

The updated Facebook app for Windows Phone is available to download from the Windows Phone Store. The app is compatible with WP7.5, WP8 and WP8.1.

Facebook introduced the video recording and playback feature for its Messenger app for Windows Phone users last month. The social website also introduced a new sticker tab for the Facebook Messenger app.

In addition to rolling-out an update for Windows Phone, Facebook last month started prompting all Android and iOS users to download the company's standalone Facebook Messenger app instead of messaging via main Facebook apps.

Facebook initially started notifying users in France, England and several other European countries for downloading the dedicated Messenger app for instant messaging on the social platform.