Update: Facebook v2.0

Facebook v2.0 | Published by Facebook | Via App Store | Free | Released: 9-30-08

Overview

The orginal Facebook app (full review HERE) shot up to one of the top 5 most downloaded apps soon after the App Store went online this summer. Soon after its release, users began to complain of missing functionality - some of which could be found on the mobile site but not on the app itself. Facebook promised a new version of the app in September, and with 0 days to spare, 2.0 was released today (complete with new icon). It does not disappoint.

What's New In This Version

The first thing you'll notice is a much improved home screen. Now each status update has a green "+" symbol next to it that allows commenting - one of the most demanded feature requests that I personally had for this much-awaited update. In addition, you'll now see three tabs across the top of the screen: News Feed, Notifications, and Requests. News Feeds contains all the updates from your friends - status updates, picture uploads, blog entries, top stories (default), etc. Notifications shows you all the different activity that your friends are engaging in on Facebook - all the apps they're adding, etc. Requests is pretty much the same as the old Facebook, allowing you to approve friend requests and event invites.

The bottom of the app's screen contains the same icons as the previous version, with the addition of some of the same features as the new home screen. On any user home page, you can now interact with wall comments, status comments, etc. When you press the "+" button or status update icon (the Facebook head in the top left corner of the main screen), you'll see a nice popout dialog box to enter your text. I like. You can also update your own status and add photos from your own page by pressing your name button at the bottom of the screen.

The new Inbox also has a feature for "Updates" that gives you information about groups you've joined or events that you've expressed interest in.

Summary

This is the app that should have been released first. Facebook has finally arrived in all its social glory on the iPhone. The previous version was really on a placeholder for this app. It's smooth, full-featured, and you may find yourself spending more time on the iPhone app than on your desktop. With the nice FREE pricetag, it's far and away the best social networking app on the iPhone today. Usability: 5 / 5 Value: 5 / 5 Utility: 4 / 5 Aesthetics: 4 / 5

Overall Rating: 4.5 / 5

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