Facebook's Messenger lite

Facebook launched a “Lite” version of its Messenger app, targeting “markets with slower than average internet speeds and a prevalence of basic Android smartphones”.

The social networking giant said more than 1 billon users worldwide use Messenger each month, a figure it is now looking to grow by adding users “regardless of network conditions or storage limitations on their Android devices”.

The app is less than 10MB in size, which Facebook said makes it quick to install and start. It includes core Messenger features including sending and receiving photos and links, and receiving stickers.

It begins its rollout in Kenya, Tunisia, Malaysia, Sri Lanka and Venezuela, with other markets to follow “in the coming months”.

Facebook already offers a Lite version of its core app, again targeting emerging markets where device and network constraints are a consideration.

And this app hit 100 million users some nine months after its launch, with particular strength in Brazil, India, Indonesia, Mexico and the Philippines.