Facebook Messenger testing new “data saver” feature and how you can be a part of it

In efforts to reduce mobile data consumption, Facebook has started testing a “data saver” option on its Messenger mobile application. The feature is currently available to anyone interested in helping facebook test it through a trial update currently only available for Android devices via

The feature is currently available to anyone interested in helping facebook test it through a trial version  available to Android users via Google Play Store.

The feature stops automatic downloads of media (images and videos) on cellular data giving you the option to “click-to-download” what you receive whilst keeping track of how much mobile data you have saved. However, auto-download remains on whilst on WiFi, much like the media auto-download feature on WhatsApp.

Through the introduction of this feature, Facebook has realized that uptake of their mobile applications (Facebook, Pages & Messenger) has been hindered by the high data consumption costs associated with them in most developing countries.

The feature will most likely be rolled out to everyone in an update once Facebook completes its viability testing. In some cases, data reduction features hamper overall user experience, so it’s wise of Facebook to have a trial version available to public for feedback purposes.

So if you have an android device and would like to be a part of this testing, download the trial version from Google Play Store now and be a part of something new!