by Kate Keith

Created on: July 30, 2008   Last Updated: September 30, 2008

With the release of the new and improved' iPhone, comes a slew of applications to dandy it up as if it needed any. Facebook has created an upgrade to their previously released application and it can be downloaded directly from the Apple/App Store.

As expected, this App is a slick, but shorn version of the Facebook.com site with easy navigational features. Well-organized and simple, the application has a good selection of commands and user friendly functionality. The only thing found lacking in access to the online site through this App was access to flair' like groups and add-on applications.

The big winner for me is the Facebook Chat integration aspect which organizes friends and contacts; similar to other chat programs available on the iPhone, but in an all-inclusive App. It provides you with an easy-to-find, alphabetical list of friends that you can chat with in the same application, removing the need to download and/or open a separate program and providing instant access. This essentially means that you can also text (SMS) all your Facebook contacts while logged in, without being dinged for per messages charges on your cell phone plan.

I'm thinking this new application could have some serious repercussions on the popularity of Twitter with its ability to send instant status updates directly. Particularly with all the technical difficulties that have plagued Twitter in the past months.

With this on the spot access to profiles and instant messaging, the Facebook App elevates the design of social networking' to new heights. Bringing Facebook into society and taking users away from their desks and laptop computers, bringing actual mobility' to the mobile phone. Imagine that!

Another interesting addition with this application is the ability to take photos with your iPhone and post them directly to your Mobile Uploads album on Facebook. Although, I did find it difficult to navigate other people's albums while using the App on my iPhone.

The iPhone Facebook version of also comes with the promise of new features and developments in the coming months. And don't worry, though the release of this App coincides with the release of Apple's iPhone 3G, it still works with the older versions just make sure you're using the Safari browser.

Learn more about this author, Kate Keith.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.