Soon, Facebook will launch new apps for Android, iOS
What's the story
In a major move, Facebook has announced a skunkworks division to launch new experimental apps for Android, iOS, and the web.
The department, dubbed New Product Experimentation or NPE Team, will create entirely new experiences for people, giving them the opportunity to build community.
Their products will later be used by Facebook to define its product strategy.
Here's everything about the NPE Team.
Apps
Small, consumer-focused apps to be developed
Though we don't know anything about the experimental project, Facebook has confirmed that NPE Team's products will be small, consumer-focused apps.
The programs will come with the developer name of 'NPE Team, by Facebook' and test a range of features.
Then, Facebook will see how engaging users find these features and use their feedback to define its product strategy.
Impact
Apps will change quickly, shutter if necessary
Just like Microsoft's Garage, Facebook has clarified that NPE Team apps will change quickly.
User responses will be used to make modifications, but if something isn't fitting with the targeted audience, it will be shuttered for good.
Facebook will probably use this division to try some wild ideas like it has done previously with Snapchat clones Poke and Lifestage, Notify, Moments, and other apps.
Advantage
NPE Team will give Facebook room to experiment
With the new division, Facebook will have the opportunity to try new and interesting products without having to tie them with its main services.
It is also worth noting that the company will leverage its internal tools, systems, and expertise to protect the data and privacy of the users signing up for the experimental apps launched by the NPE Team.
Launch
However, there is no word on launch timeline
Now that the NPE Team has been revealed, we expect to see new programs launching soon.
There is no word on what these apps would do or when they would be available, but some of them may need Facebook login from the users to continue.
However, worry not, you'd be able to remove the apps from Facebook settings, just like other programs.