Facebook’s newest version, internally referred to as “FB5” is starting to appear on peoples’ desktop devices. 

What’s Changed?

Tabbed layout

Across the top of the desktop experience now, much like on mobile, you can switch between different “usage areas” of Facebook. See the screenshot below, courtesy of Social Media Today:

Lighter colours

Facebook is finally shuffling off its trademark light-navyish-blue for a more light, fresh look and feel. The logo is a lighter blue, and the overall desktop experience is less blue overall. This has been a gradual move on Facebook’s part, with the only remaining predominantly blue area on the platforms UI now being the bar navigation bar at the top of screen

Dark theme

As well as overall making the experience lighter and brighter, they’ve also unveiled a “Dark mode” that is soon to be making its way to desktop devices, presumably to make it easier on the eyes while one scrolls endlessly through one’s newsfeed. See an example below, taken from Mark Zuckerberg’s keynote address back in May, when the changes were first announced.

Saving last position

Facebook will now remember your last position on the platform, and return you there when you reopen, rather than taking you to the top of your newsfeed. 

Why “Fix What Ain’t Broke”? 

Facebook’s intention with the change is primarily to bring the desktop version of the social media platform more in line with the mobile app experience, while also making it easier for users to switch between usage areas, such as Groups, Shopping, Notifications, etc.

Here’s a quote from Facebook on the philosophy behind it:

“This redesign makes it easy for people to go from public spaces to more private ones, like Groups. There are tens of millions of active groups on Facebook, and when people find the right one, it often becomes the most meaningful part of how they use Facebook. That’s why we’re introducing new tools that will make it easier for you to discover and engage with groups of people who share your interests.”

Why you should care

A new design and added functionality might be what the shrinking social media giant needs to reinvigorate its user base, which is turning to newer forms of social media, eating up its market share. Keep an eye out for climbing Facebook active users, as this might mean that it’s time to pump some marketing budget back into the ‘book.