Facebook Messenger is a branch of the Facebook platform, though it exists as its own standalone app.
It is a messaging platform which is connected to Facebook, turning all your Facebook friends into messaging contacts. For those who use the app to connect and communicate with friends and family members, it is the go-to platform for sending direct messages to specific individuals.
And that’s not all.
Users can also send message requests to people who they are not friends with, provided that they have not been blocked by the user. It is also possible to create group chats on Messenger to stay connected with a group of friends or peers – plus there is a whole section of Messenger that’s dedicated to Facebook Marketplace communications.
Here’s how to use Messenger…
How to Use Messenger
If you choose to use Facebook on your smart device via the app, then the Messenger app is a separate download.
If you use Facebook via a desktop device or internet browser then Messenger is integrated within the main Facebook screen. In this instance, it appears as a pop up in the bottom corner of the screen.
To use Messenger, simply open it and search for the user who you want to message. You can do this using the search bar at the top of the Messenger screen, by clicking on an existing message stream in your inbox, or by selecting the ‘Message’ button on their profile.
What Are Message Requests?
If you click on the button in the top left hand corner of the Messenger app screen, indicated by three horizontal lines, then a pop up menu will appear.
One item in the menu is labelled ‘Message Requests’. These are messages sent to you by people who you are not friends with on Facebook but who have sent you a message. You can approve these and start communicating directly or block them.
What Is Archive?
In the same menu where you will find Message Requests, you will also see an option labelled ‘Archive’.
These are old and outdated messages that you have chosen to move out of your inbox and hide in the archive folder – without permanently getting rid of them.
Messenger Settings
If, when you click on the Messenger menu button, you select the cog icon in the top right hand corner of the screen, then you will open your Messenger settings.
This allows you to control your screen view, your active status on Messenger, your avatar, and switch accounts between your personal profile and any pages that you manage.
It is also where you can facilitate and monitor the order status of Marketplace communications and purchases, and control little details like your notifications on the app.
We hope all this advice and information helps when it comes to navigating the Messenger app! As Messenger is operated under the Facebook banner, it’s easier than ever to connect with Facebook friends directly – whether you find and start conversing with them via their profile page or by searching for them on Messenger.
