Facebook Messenger Update For iPhone, iPad Introduces New Features

Facebook has announced that it is adding a new privacy settings section to the Messenger app.

The new section gives users more control as to who gets to see their interactions with people, as well as who gets to see the Stories they post in the app.

The star of the new section is the new App Lock feature, which adds “another layer of security” that will keep a user's private messages safe from prying eyes, even from those close to them. This new feature will give users peace of mind knowing that no one will be able to view their messages and exchanges with other people even if they have the device in their hands.

Once enabled, the new App Lock feature will require users to authenticate their identity in order to unlock the app. The feature will use the iPhone or iPad's authentication methods, Touch ID or Face ID, to unlock the Messenger app. Facebook promises that it will not use the feature to acquire, transmit and store touch ID and face ID data.

Users can enable App Lock by tapping on their profile photo in the Messenger home screen, tapping on the new “Privacy” option in the menu that appears, then turning the App Lock toggle on.

Other privacy features

The new Privacy section allows users to do more than turn App Lock on. Facebook has placed all privacy controls in this section so that users will only need to proceed to one centralized location if they need to tweak their privacy settings.

The new section is where users can access features and settings like the people they blocked, the audience who can see their stories, their muted stories, their secret conversations and other message settings. The section gives users more control over their privacy.

Facebook said the new App Lock feature is initially available for iPhone and iPad users and promised that it will roll out to Android devices “in the next few months.”

The social media giant also said that it will soon introduce a feature similar to Instagram's message controls. The feature will allow users to limit who can message and call them directly, who gets redirected to the requests folder and who won't be allowed to message or call them at all via the app.

Facebook also stated that it is testing more features, adding that all of it will be “coming soon.”