Facebook made a new Snapchat clone for Brazil because why not
If you were wondering if Facebook is finally growing weary with trying to copy Snapchat, the answer, it seems, is: not even close.
The social network launched a new app in Brazil on Tuesday that looks like yet another near-perfect Snapchat clone.
Called Flash, the app allows Brazilian users to send disappearing messages — complete with filters masks emoji and doodles — to friends or add them to their in-app stories.
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Facebook has previously tested some Snapchat-like camera features in its main app during the Olympics in Brazil. Apparently those tests were successful as Facebook is now launching a similar experience in Flash.
Feature-wise, Flash is very similar to Snapchat though there are some technical aspects that may make it a better fit for Brazilian users (and others in emerging markets.) The app was designed to be data efficient — images are downloaded automatically on Wi-Fi connections only and the app has an offline mode — and the app will work on older Android devices, which are prevalent in the country.
Still, all that may not be enough to make the app stick. Facebook has famously tried to build Snapchat-like apps before, with Poke and Slingshot, though none have been successful.
The company says it's focusing on Brazil for now though the goal is to bring the app to more countries in the future.
Topics Facebook
Karissa was Mashable's Senior Tech Reporter, and is based in San Francisco. She covers social media platforms, Silicon Valley, and the many ways technology is changing our lives. Her work has also appeared in Wired, Macworld, Popular Mechanics, and The Wirecutter. In her free time, she enjoys snowboarding and watching too many cat videos on Instagram. Follow her on Twitter @karissabe.
