The facebook facelift

Facebook is changing all the time. While some of us are still trying to figure out the original features...

Facebook is changing all the time. While some of us are still trying to figure out the original features,here is a look at what those behind the worlds favourite social networking site have been up to recently.

Vanity URLs: This recent addition promises those suffering from obscurity a chance to feel like a star,at least in the virtual world. Vanity URLs also give friends direct access to your profile by putting your username as part of the URL. It also helps people find you in case you have a very common name. The option for getting your own web address is no difficult task. Just confirm one of the choices provided at facebook.com/usernames or create one by checking out the more option. Only those who created accounts before the username availability was announced will be eligible. Usernames cannot be changed or transferred once made. If you are famous,register now to prevent facesquatting.

Organised inboxes: The Facebook inbox now has filters and the capability to control messages. Users can now mark their unread messages,report spam or as before,simply delete to manage their account. Additional tools have been incorporated to manage page updates. A separate tab is also available for updates,from where you can edit your subscriptions. However,not much has been done about other tools like the ability to forward messages.

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Application directory: With a mind-boggling array of applications to choose from,it has often been difficult to find what suits your needs. To make things easier,Facebook has launched an Application Directory. The directory allows users to keep abreast of applications your friends are using. It has an applications you may like category,organised on the basis of user feedback and popularity. Another addition,the applications featured by Facebook,is where you can find verified applications like Flixster,a movie quiz.

Facebook goes mobile: With your mobile acting as the new interface to the site,it is going to become all the more easy to stay in touch with friends. Browsing Facebook gets a whole new feel at m.facebook.com,which is accessible on mobiles with web access. The user can now get text messages regarding status updates and wall posts. You can also upload photos and videos by sending an MMS to mobile@facebook.com. Interactive applications are availed on specified models.

Larger photo albums: Previously only 60 photos could be shared with friends through a single photo album. Since there was no limit on the number of albums one could have,the limit was a mere hassle. The current expansion of the limit has taken the number of photos that can be shared to a whopping 200! The Facebook blog claims the company will be using their new Haystack storage system for increased storage capacity.

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