Hope William-Smith
Facebook has launched a new app which allows smartphone users to receive instantaneous updates on news and information relevant to their likes and interests.
“Notifications are becoming one of the primary ways people first learn about things wherever they are,” said Facebook product manager Julian Gutman in a recent blog post.
‘Notify’ sends alerts to a smartphone’s lock screen on topics based on a user’s interests including sports results, local and national news, music or movies. On installing the app, users are able to choose their own mix of sources or individual topics they would like to receive information on. For example, the app can issue an alert about a movie release, then include a link to buy tickets from your local or preferred cinema. The app can also send you updates on local areas and local events.
The launch of Notify comes after Facebook unveiled its Instant Articles service six months ago. This sought to increase the delivery of off-site content by hosting it in private data centres.
More than 70 media organisations around the world have already to begun to participate with the app, including the New York Times, Buzzfeed and Bloomberg Business. With everything from political updates to daily meditation news, Notify can be tailored to suit anyone!
