Facebook unveils 'Home' Android software

MENLO PARK, Calif. (KABC) -- Facebook has introduced software called "Home" that makes the social network the hub of any smartphone running Google's Android operating system.

The idea behind the software is to bring Facebook content right to the home screen, rather than requiring users to check apps.

Facebook says the new app is a new way for Android users to enhance the way they use their phones and how they communicate with their friends.

Founder and CEO Mark Zuckerberg says "Home" gives Android users a better experience. Users can personalize their home screen to update them on the people they care about, instead of opening different apps to see pictures and messages.

The cover screen feature scrolls through user's friend's photos. Users can double click the screen to like a picture, without opening the Facebook app to like a photo.

Notifications will also pop up on users' home screens.

Zuckerberg says Facebook wants to give people the power to share and make their world more connected.

"So you can flip through stories if you want and if you find something that you like, you can double tap to like it. You can comment from the home screen," Zuckerberg said. "One of the things that you're going to notice is that all the interactions are just really smooth and natural. We wanted this to feel like system software and not just an app that you run."

Zuckerberg says "Home" lets users easily message friends. The feature is called "chat heads." Users don't have to close whatever app they're using. They can simply click on a face on their home screen and communicate.

To download "Home", consumers need to go to Google's online store. The app will be available starting April 12 on certain phones.

Get more Business »

facebook, business, melissa macbride

• Comment Now
• Email
• Print
• Report a typo
•