Facebook Gets a Mobile Makeover With 'Paper'
The new app will bring about a slimmer, sleeker social network.
Jan. 31, 2014— -- Facebook has ballooned in size over the decade it has been around, and the social network may be looking to slim down a little, at least on mobile devices.
Paper, the first app from its Creative Labs division, combines several of the features Facebook is known for while getting rid of some of the clutter.
"Paper makes storytelling more beautiful with an immersive design and full-screen, distraction-free layouts," the company said in a statement. "We've also made it easier to craft and share beautiful stories of your own."
Instead of the cramped single vertical column most Facebook users are used to seeing on their smartphone, Paper gives each Facebook story item its own page. Users can swipe through their news feed as if it were their phone's photo gallery.
In addition to the Facebook news feed, Paper has several topic pages (such as science, photography and food) that users can add to their home screen for a more personal touch. One of the most appealing features is that shared stories can be read directly in the app without opening up another window or tab.
The new app will be available for free on Feb. 3 for iPhone users, but no date for Android has been set.
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