A trial has been launched by Facebook on a small number of users in the US, enabling users to send a message to a stranger, reaching their inbox for just $1. Outside the trial, anyone sending a message to someone other than their friends will find their message landing in the ‘other’ folder, which will probably result in the message not being read.
Charging a fee ensures that a message which is sent to someone outside a person’s circle of friends will reach the recipient’s inbox. Under the trial, those taking part will be able to receive up to one message a week and a maximum of three in a month. According to a statement which was posted on the site:
“Several commentators and researchers have noted that imposing a financial cost on the sender may be the most effective way to discourage unwanted messages and facilitate delivery of messages that are relevant and useful.”
Although the trial hasn’t been launched in the UK or other European countries, it may be considered in the future, according to Facebook. This development may be useful to businesses with a SEO campaign that utilises Facebook and other social media sites. Any search engine optimisation campaign may have to be altered in some cases to maximise any advantages offered by the new feature.
Paid-for messages may be useful for anyone who wants to leave a message concerning a job opportunity, or a speaker at an event. According to Facebook, the charge will help to avoid spam and other messages that are irrelevant.
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