New Facebook Messenger users can't use the app without a Facebook account

Facebook used to allow anyone to use the Facebook Messenger app without needing a Facebook account. But now, the company will require new users to have one if they want to use the messaging app. A spokesperson for the company confirmed that this change would only affect new users. Those who already use Messenger won't need to do anything. But VentureBeat reported that some users are experiencing some issues with them being restricted from using the service. The change might be due to Facebook's plans to make its different messaging apps (including WhatsApp and Instagram) interoperable.

New Facebook Messenger app is available on the Microsoft Store

Facebook released a new beta version of its Messenger app on the Microsoft Store. Now powered by Electron instead of OSMeta, the feature set is closer to the iOS and Android versions of the app. It works on x86 and ARM processors. The app features a clean look with light and dark mode, as well as the option to attach files. The update seems to be rolling out in stages, so you might need to be a bit patient if it hasn't made its way to you yet.

Source: Windows Central

Facebook Messenger tests screen sharing

Here's one useful feature for Facebook Messenger that we hope gets released. The company's messaging app is trying out a way to share screens on its mobile app. App researcher Jane Manchun Wong discovered in the app's code that Facebook is developing a new functionality called Share Your Screen Together. 

It's accessible via a new icon at the bottom of your Audio/Video call screen. When you activate it, the user will be warned that it'll capture everything displayed on the screen. For Android users, you'll need to permit that app to do this. Unlike other apps, sharing your screen will turn off the camera. You won't see the picture-in-picture image of the person you're talking to when this feature is activated. We don't know yet if Facebook plans to release this feature to the public. 

Source: Android Police

Facebook brings dark mode to all Messenger users

You no longer have to send a moon emoji to activate dark mode on your Facebook Messenger. The social network rolled out an update to all iOS and Android users to let them toggle dark mode on or off. Facebook joins a number of apps that offer this feature. And if this is something you’ve been waiting for, then it’s time to update your app.