Online lives could be made easier now that Facebook, Instagram, and Messenger are testing merged app notifications. 'Could' being the operative word!
This feature was first spotted by social media analyst Mari Smith, who admitted that she's "not too jazzed about that one!"
We're not too sure about it here at Gadget Hacks HQ either. How beneficial can an aggregate notification count actually be?
On one hand, it saves time because you're made aware of app notifications simultaneously. But is also enticing people to read the various red alerts and access the apps in question. In this sense, it could be a ploy to boost engagement: Users will see red alerts and be compelled to check the three apps.
A pop-up switcher with the pending number of alerts appears for some users when they click on the profile icon of Facebook, Instagram, or Messanger. The number of notifications relating is listed once the icon is clicked in a red circle format. This allows them to switch between app platforms with a tap.
Facebook confirmed that they were currently "testing" the feature. Speaking to Tech Crunch, a representative said:
We are conducting a very small test to make it easier for people to discover and connect with the people and things they care about. We're exploring ways to help people switch more easily between their Facebook, Messenger, and Instagram accounts.
Whatsapp, another one of Mark Zuckerberg's acquisitions, is not a part of the merged notification crew — yet! What do you think about the prospect of merged notifications? Let us know in the comments section below.
Just updated your iPhone to iOS 18? You'll find a ton of hot new features for some of your most-used Apple apps. Dive in and see for yourself:
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