Facebook updates Messenger apps, rolls-out voice-calling globally

Facebook has rolled out new update versions for its Messenger chat service for Android and iOS users. For Android, the Facebook Messenger app has been updated to version 4.0, while for iOS it has been updated to version 4.1.

The Android update (bringing the app to version 4.0) brings features seen in the Facebook Messenger 4.0 app update for iOS released in the last week of March. These features are group messaging, as well as message and photo forwarding. In addition, users will be able to pin contact shortcuts to their home screens - a feature also available in the new iOS app. Users can create a shortcut icon of any conversation with any of their friends - tapping on the shortcut will open that particular chat window.

Facebook is also touting the Android app's ability to make free calls (via Wi-Fi or mobile data) on its Play Store listing, something not previously listed despite the feature being available in certain regions. The same 'free calls' feature is also mentioned as the only update to Facebook Messenger 4.1 listing on iTunes. These feature being finally listed indicates the Facebook Messenger now supports data-based voice-calling in all countries.

Notably, the voice-calling feature on Facebook Messenger first arrived for iOS platform in January 2013. It was then slowly rolled out to the US, UK and Canada. Facebook brought the feature to its Android and iOS apps in India earlier in March.

The Facebook Messenger for Android version 4.0 is available to download from the Google Play store, while the Facebook Messenger 4.1 for iOS app is now available to download from the iTunes App Store.