Facebook has begun rolling out the Messenger 4 update to iOS and Android devices. Facebook Messenger 4 delivers a simplified user experience that makes it easier for users to navigate the app.

“In a recent Messenger study, 7 out of 10 (71%) people told us simplicity is the top priority for them in a messaging app. Among people surveyed who are messaging more frequently, 62% say messaging makes them feel closer to their friends,” Facebook said on its blog. “We believe Messenger 4 delivers the closeness and authenticity that you’ve been asking for — through simplicity of design and powerful features that put the focus back on messaging and connecting.”

Facebook Messenger 4 will now feature only three tabs at the bottom of the app’s main page: Chats, People and Discover. The Chats tab will place all conversations, both one-on-on and groups, into one page. The People tab is where users can easily browse their contacts list. The Discover tab is where users will find businesses and Messenger’s Instant Games. Previously, Games had its own tab present on the Messenger’s main page.

The camera icon has been relocated to the upper right hand side of the app along with the “compose new message” icon. Users will be able to access their profile settings by tapping on their profile icon located at the upper left side.

Customizations to chats have also been expanded on Facebook Messenger 4. Currently, users are able to add custom nicknames, emojis and chat colors. But with the Messenger 4 app update, Facebook has added a new chat customization option called color gradients. This will allow users to customize the chat bubbles in conversations. Users will be able to set the color gradient they want and when they scroll up and down the conversation, they will see the colors change based on the color gradient that they’ve chosen.

Although Facebook has added a bunch of these new changes to Messenger 4, all of the previous features that users have been enjoying will stay put. “While Messenger 4 is all about simpler and easier-to-use messaging, we’re still keeping all of the features that help you connect with the people you care about,” Facebook said.

Facebook added that it is gradually rolling out Messenger 4 to all of its users globally over the coming weeks. Unfortunately, it looks like the Dark Mode that the company previously announced won’t be available yet when the update arrives to users. Facebook will introduce other new features “in the near future,” including the new Dark Mode, according to Android Police.

RELATED STORIES
Software Facebook App Update