Facebook has released a "lite" variation of its Messenger app, in a bid to reach users in emerging markets where mobile web connections are sluggish

The firm explained Facebook Messenger Lite as a "slimmed down version of Messenger" created for basic Android phones with low memory. The app rolls out today to users in Kenya, Tunisia, Malaysia, Sri Lanka and Venezuela, prior to expanding to other markets in coming months.

The announcement marks Facebook's most current effort to expand its reach in developing nations, following the launch of Facebook Lite, a stripped-down variation of its flagship app, and Free basics, which enables users to gain access to specific websites for free.

Messenger Lite gives the exact same core functions as Messenger, making it possible for users to send out and get texts, pictures, and links. Facebook also states that the app is fast and simple to download, with a size of under 10MB. In July, the social media network revealed that Messenger has more than 1 billion active users, a couple of months after the Facebook-owned WhatsApp reached the exact same turning point.
"With Messenger Lite, more users can stay in touch, regardless of network conditions or storage constraints on their Android gadgets.