Facebook Testing Lite Version

Facebook is in the process of testing a simplified version of its social network service called Facebook Lite. The Lite version offers faster load times and a slimmed-down user interface with basic functionality including the ability to make comments, accept friend requests, write on walls, and view photos.

Facebook Lite is similar to the mobile version of Facebook. From screen captures, we see that Facebook Lite has a single column display of Wall posts with three buttons at the top that let you write messages and post photos or videos. You’ll also find four links at the left under your profile picture: Wall, Info, Friends, and Photos and Video.

Facebook Lite is designed to be accessed quickly in parts of the world where broadband Internet speeds are unavailable or not widespread. Reportedly, Facebook is creating this simplified version to entice new users and offer a version with faster load times.


News of Facebook Lite spread quickly after the company accidentally sent invites to a number of users to try out the service. When users attempted to click on the links, however, they were unable to access the simplified version. TechCrunch received this response from Facebook regarding the mix-up: "This evening, the test [of Facebook Lite] was temporarily exposed to a larger set of users by mistake. We have not opened up access to lite.facebook.com to all users at this time. People who are not part of the test and are trying to access "Lite" will be directed to Facebook.com as usual."

Facebook Lite is being tested in India and other countries where new users flooding to the service are looking for a simplified experience to start off with. Right now, it’s still unclear if users in the U.S. will be able to try out Facebook Lite in the future.